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History of Grillz

Tue, 30 Jun 2020 17:05:38 GMT

You may not have known that grillz originated long before Nelly exclaimed, "You want to see my what?" The history dates back even longer than when rappers like Kilo Ali and Raheem the Dream sported grillz in their rap videos. Surprisingly, these teeth adornments are even older than the Egyptians, and researchers found remnants of them in several places throughout the world.

Giza

One of the first documented uses of grillz was from around 2,500 B.C. Archaeologists found a man with two gold teeth from this time period buried in Giza.

Etruscans

The next documentation of grillz came from the Etruscans. Archaeologists speculate the Etruscans lived before Christ - although the exact time is questionable. However, researchers know that these individuals dwelled in present-day northern Lazio, western Umbria, and Tuscany.

What Researchers Discovered

Researchers assume information about the Etruscan culture from the tombs and graves since few writings survived throughout the years.

In particular, in the 1800s, American archaeologists dug up their remains and discovered gold teeth. None of these artifacts remain today, though. Unfortunately, researchers lost the gold teeth after passing them from person to person, so the only evidence that remains regarding the gold teeth during this time is in obscure journals.

During the research, they found around 20 examples of grillz from this time, and some consisted of delicate gold wiring used to connect the gold teeth to one another.

What Researchers Believe About the Grillz

Researchers who studied ancient Italian culture believe that women were the first ones to adorn their teeth in gold to represent their status. Surprisingly enough, archaeologists discovered some of the women during the Etruscan times removed their two front teeth intentionally. These women had someone either reuse their old teeth or replace their original teeth with gold bands in between the teeth.

Archaeologists believe that the Etruscans didn't seek the assistance of a dentist for this procedure. Instead, they sought out the services of a goldsmith who performed their aesthetic dental work.

Unfortunately, research indicates the trend of gold teeth faded when the Romans took over Italy.

Mayans

Archaeologists found the next culture in history to use grillz was the Mayans. They were classified as Mesoamericans and lived in places such as:

Mexico
El Salvador
Guatemala
Belize
Honduras

Research shows that the Mayans preferred to use jade to decorate their teeth. The individuals who placed these stones situated them directly into the person's teeth.

The green of the jade was symbolic of agriculture, sustenance, and plant growth. They even carefully selected the shade of the stone. Generally, the Mayans strived for lighter shades of green to signify their wealth and status. Besides to indicate their social status, the Mayans also placed gems in their teeth to enhance their appearance.

Although the sculptors and architects of the time were not nearly as wealthy as the elites who placed jade in their teeth, these individuals also desired the aesthetic appeal of decorative teeth. Instead of jade, they would request fillings in their teeth.

After the Spanish Conquest in the 1500s, decorated teeth were once again unfashionable.

Vikings

Researchers discovered that the next group in history to wear grillz was the Vikings, who inhabited Sweden.

You may think of the large helmets with horns when you think about this group of individuals; however, their style also incorporated gold teeth. Often, they would line the ridges of their teeth with gold.

They would even use a charcoal mix to highlight the white of their teeth with a dark hue.

These examples are just some of the individuals throughout history who practiced the art of tooth decoration. Although the trend of embellished teeth started many years ago and underwent changes throughout history, you can still choose to make your smile a masterpiece encrusted in gold to this day.

Schedule an appointment with Gold Teeth Baton Rouge, serving Baton Rouge, LA, and the nearby region, to discuss your options for gold teeth or grillz.

How to Care and Maintain Gold Dental Crowns

Thu, 30 Apr 2020 12:46:21 GMT

How should you care for your gold crowns? If you're new to gold dental crowns, take a look at what you need to know to keep your teeth safe, healthy, and in top condition.

Understand Your Gold Dental Crown

You may already have dental crowns. But if you're new to gold crowns, you need to understand the difference in dental materials before you can properly care for your teeth. Gold crowns:

Are made from different materials . The three primary types of gold crowns are precious metal (at least 60 percent high noble alloy, with 40 percent gold), semi-precious metal (25 percent noble allow), or non-precious metal (less and 25 percent non-noble allow).
May include a combination of materials . Not only do all-metal crowns often include a gold mix (with platinum, palladium, chromium, or nickel), but some of these crowns are porcelain-gold blends.
Are permanent . The dentist bonds the crown to your existing teeth. This means you can't remove the gold material on your own. If you want removable gold teeth, discuss a grill with your dentist.
Are durable and long-lasting . The metal makeup is strong enough to resist chips, cracks, and other types of damage you may find with other types of crowns. But that doesn't mean you won't have to care for your gold dental crown.

Talk to your dentist about the specific type of gold crown you have (or will have). The dentist can provide you with more information on material mixtures and your options.

Clean Your Gold Dental Crown

Unlike gold grills or other removable teeth, you won't have to soak your crowns. Even though you won't have to buy special cleaning products, you do still need to care for your teeth and crowns. At-home crown care includes:

Brush regularly . Brush all your teeth, including the crowns, at least twice a day for two minutes.
Brush after meals . Along with morning and night-time care, brush your teeth after meals or snacks - especially after eating sticky or sugary foods.
Floss . Floss in between teeth to remove plaque and debris buildup. This can keep your crowns, teeth, and gums healthy.

While whitening toothpastes are popular choices, these products won't have a brightening effect on gold teeth. Regular (non-whitening) fluoride-containing toothpaste is an acceptable choice for your crowns. If you want to whiten the rest of your teeth, talk to your dentist about the best options for your dental needs.

Maintain Your Gold Dental Crown

At-home care is the first step towards a healthy mouth. Regular brushing and flossing are necessary daily maintenance tasks. But that doesn't mean your gold tooth care should stop there. To keep your gold crown in top shape and reduce the risks of damage:

Schedule regular dental visits . Maintain a regular dental office visit schedule. Talk to your dentist about how many office appointments you need annually.
Call the dentist with concerns . If you damage your crown or have another issue, don't wait to call the dentist. Contact the office as soon as possible to schedule an appointment.
Follow the dentist's instructions . Follow all directions the dentist provides you with. These may include the use of a specific toothpaste product, the type of toothbrush you should use, or other dental care steps.
Choose what you eat and drink wisely . Even though gold dental crowns are durable, you should still avoid foods that may cause damage. Stay away from anything sticky or hard (such as hard candies and nuts) and don't chew ice.

With proper care and maintenance, you should get years of use from your gold dental crowns.

Do you need a gold crown to restore your smile? Contact Gold Teeth Baton Rouge for more information.

3 Surprising Ways to Save Severely Damaged Teeth

Fri, 28 Feb 2020 09:41:15 GMT

If your smile is less than perfect, you may fear you will never get the beautiful smile you have always wanted. However, with more cosmetic dental options becoming more affordable, you have plenty of options to restore your severely damaged teeth. If you are ready for your smile restoration, check out these three surprising ways a dentist can help your teeth.

1. Composite Bonding

Composite bonding uses a hard and durable material called composite resin. This resin goes directly on the teeth, and the dentist molds and shapes the resin as necessary to repair teeth. For example, if you have a gap between your front teeth, the dentist can mold the resin into the gap to make your teeth look flush.

Besides fixing gaps, the resin can fill in chips and cover cracks. Not only does this give you back a beautiful smile, but the resin protects the underlying layer of dentin (and the tooth's pulp) from decay and infection.

The resin can also match the color of your teeth, creating a seamless finish. If you need composite bonding on all your front teeth, your dentist may be able to use it to give you a whiter smile too. The resin is highly resistant to staining. However if it does stain, the stains are permanent.

2. Gold Crowns

Crowns commonly help strengthen teeth because the crowns give the tooth a new external shell. However, many types of crowns exist, including porcelain and gold. Many people shy away from gold crowns because of the color, but gold crowns have many benefits over porcelain crowns.

First, if you like the look of gold teeth, gold crowns can be a better long-term option. This is because they cannot stain or chip like porcelain. If porcelain does stain or chip, as with composite resin, it is permanent until you replace the crown.

The biggest advantage gold crowns have over porcelain is their strength. The strong metal is excellent at withstanding lots of wear and tear. On the other hand, simply grinding your porcelain crowns can wear them down fast. The downside is that gold crowns will irritate gums more than porcelain, so you need to take excellent care of your gums.

3. Post and Core Buildup

Crowns are common for after root canal therapy or placing a big filling. They may also be useful for teeth with lots of cracks or smaller fillings to prevent the tooth from shattering in the future. If the tooth has shattered, however, another option exists beside extraction.

The dentist can insert posts into the tooth to serve as anchors to rebuild the tooth. Naturally, as with big fillings or root canal therapy, the rebuilt tooth is incredibly weak. For this reason, your dentist will also suggest a crown. The location of the tooth plays a huge role in determining which type of crown you should consider.

Many people like the aesthetics of porcelain crowns on their front teeth, which is fine after a post and core buildup because your front teeth are only responsible for biting, which doesn't create much pressure. On back teeth, however, a gold crown may be a better option because it will better protect the underlying damaged tooth.

Even broken teeth can be repaired with the right tools, such as gold crowns. If you would like to know more about how to improve the look and strength of your smile, or if you want a quote on some gold grills, contact us at Gold Teeth Baton Rouge today. We look forward to speaking with you about all of your specific dental questions and concerns.

Tips for Discussing Gold Teeth With Your College Student

Sat, 04 Jan 2020 17:23:23 GMT

Gold teeth have been growing in popularity in recent years, according to the Daily Press. However, many people still don't know about the charms of this dental choice. When parents first learn their college student wants a gold tooth or multiple gold teeth to fix some dental issues, they may have some questions. Consider these tips for discussing gold teeth with your college student.

Ask a Variety of Questions

Many young people have multiple reasons for wanting gold teeth. However, they may have a hard time directly opening up about those reasons to parents. To help students speak more openly about the topic, ask them a variety of open-ended questions to learn about their reasons for wanting the bling in their mouth. Some questions you may want to ask include the following:

Can you show me an example of the gold teeth you'd like to have?
Tell me about what first attracted you to getting gold teeth.
What is it about gold teeth that makes them so appealing to you?
Who inspired you to want gold teeth?
Why is gold preferable over other materials?
What do you think people often misunderstand about gold teeth?
Do you want to add jewelry or stick with gold?

Talk to your college student openly and directly, and you are more likely to find that they will do the same. As you get information about the student's affinity for gold teeth, consider it and ask follow-up questions about things you still may not understand.

Come Prepared for the Chat

Before you talk to your college student about gold teeth, do your own due diligence. Learn about the history of gold teeth. You are likely to find out facts that will surprise you, and you may just decide that you want your own set of gold teeth. For example, gold teeth are resistant to corrosion and are also fracture-resistant.

Although you want to come into the conversation with an open mind, having your own independently researched knowledge of gold teeth and gold grills will help you have a more in-depth talk about the issue. Your child is sure to appreciate that you cared enough to really understand this choice that is likely very important to them.

Talk About the Costs of Gold Teeth

Getting gold teeth may have a different cost than other forms of restorative dentistry. Encourage your college student to directly discuss gold teeth with their dentist. Once you both figure out how much it will cost, talk to the student about who is responsible for covering the expenses.

Some college students may expect their parents to pay the bill, and you should let them know whether you are willing to do that. If not, bring up some alternatives that might be in their best interests. For example, you might suggest ways that they can earn the money on time when they're not in class or offer conditions you may have about funding their purchase.

Establish Your Expectations

If you are going to support your college student getting gold teeth, you should also discuss any expectations you have moving forward. For example, you may talk about how gold teeth still require daily brushing, flossing, and swishing with mouthwash.

In fact, you may want your college student to commit to a greater level of daily dental care if you are going to move forward with gold teeth. Reiterate that this is an investment in their well-being and their overall dental health.

Finally, contact Gold Teeth Baton Rouge today to make a dental appointment for your college student. We can talk to you and your student about all specifics of getting gold teeth or a gold grill. Our caring team can provide any information you need. When you respect your adult child's wishes, you encourage them to continue to take the best care of their teeth and gums.

Before You Ask for a Permanent Grill, Know What You're Getting — And What You Might Really Need

Tue, 22 Oct 2019 01:39:44 GMT

Gold grills (or grillz) have been popular for more than a few years and still have their dedicated fans. The tooth appliances can be subtle or showy, but either way, they are noticeable.

For the most part, grills are meant to be temporary, almost like a fancy retainer, but for cosmetic purposes and not to keep your teeth in place. Yet some people have decided to make their grills permanent. No matter how much you like your grill, this is a decision you can't make lightly.

Grills Are Not the Same as Crowns

You may have decided that your grill looks a lot better than your natural teeth, and thus it would be better for you to keep the grill in permanently. However, that's not the purpose of a grill; the dental devices and procedures that improve how your teeth look are crowns, veneers, and bonding.

You can get gold crowns made if you really like the look of gold. Gold, in fact, is an excellent material for crowns because of its strength and resistance to wear. Much of the dental gold used today is actually an alloy with additional metals like nickel to increase the crown's resilience.

Gold crowns also require the least amount of tooth modification before application. If you want to cover up damaged teeth, a gold crown, rather than a permanent grill, is what you need.

Your Teeth and Gums Still Need Proper Care

Crowns can cover part or all of the exposed tooth, but they do not interfere with access to your gums or to other teeth that don't need to be covered up. Grills, however, can make it harder to reach your gumline and other teeth depending on the grill's design.

Gum flesh should never be covered up permanently. That is a recipe for the development of gum disease.

To permanently cover a tooth to the point that it doesn't need additional care requires tooth-surface preparation and a thorough seal. Any exposure or gap in the seal between the crown and tooth can result in more decay forming, which is why you can still have cavities form in teeth that are partially covered with a crown. Or in teeth that are fully covered, if a gap opens in the seal.

While not common, cases of people trying to attach grills with glue are certainly not rare. Unfortunately, that DIY application leaves a lot of space for more decay and staining, but not a lot of access for treatment.

The use of a removable grill is much more helpful for good oral health. Treat the grill like you would a retainer or tray-style braces: clean the grill after each use, protect it, and take it out when eating. Brush and floss thoroughly before putting the grill back in.

One more issue with permanent grills stands out: Damage from a poorly fitting grill. A grill that's too big or that doesn't fit well can lead to damage on the interior of your lips, where the grill hits them. The grills can also scrape across teeth, damaging the enamel.

If the grill can be removed easily at the first sign of irritation or harm, you can stop the problem then and there when you take the grill out of your mouth. But if the grill is in permanently, it may take an emergency trip to a dentist to remove the grill, plus additional dental work to repair the damage.

Grills Are Great Accessories

Grills are actually great accessories for those who like the style. They are customizable, and you can get grills made for different occasions or in different shapes. If you truly want a permanent grill, or if you decide that what you really need is a gold crown, contact Gold Teeth Baton Rouge . Grill use and crown installation need the guidance of an experienced dentist.

Why You Should Consider Gold Teeth Restoration

Mon, 09 Sep 2019 22:46:21 GMT

When it comes to getting dental work done, you have a lot of choices in terms of how that work is done. For example, when it comes to crowns and other forms of tooth replacement, you could request a gold tooth instead of porcelain or ceramic.

Gold teeth are a wonderful choice for many people, and they offer a wide range of unique benefits. For these reasons, they're definitely worth consideration on your next dental visit.

Strength

To start with, gold teeth are incredibly strong and durable. That's because gold itself is very strong, and the type of gold used in dental work is of the absolute highest quality.

This strength means your dental restoration is likely to last for a very long time, maybe even for the rest of your life. The risk of chipping and breaking is also greatly reduced. The strength of gold makes for a safer, more secure fit in your mouth, which is exactly what you want in a tooth.

Sealing Properties

When you go for a gold crown, you'll be glad to know that these crowns can be sealed easily and securely. Sealing the tooth properly keeps out plaque and food particles, which can easily lead to tooth decay and other dental concerns.

So, if you want to keep your teeth in great shape, get your crowns, bridges, and other dental work done in gold.

Confidence-Boosting Capabilities

A gold tooth can be very attractive. It can add a little something extra to your smile and make you feel great.

If you're looking for an easy way to feel better about yourself and your smile, then a gold tooth is a great choice. You may want to smile more often just to show it off, and the more you smile and the more positive responses you get, the more confident and happy you'll feel.

Easy Gum Integration

Gold teeth are known for being easy to contour and shape to the gums, which means that they fit inside your mouth perfectly.

If you want a tooth that meets your gums at just the right level, which reduces irritation and the likelihood of failure, then go for a gold tooth. Because of how well they integrate into the gums, as well as to any underlying tooth structure, they should last a whole lot longer than most other teeth restoration options.

Hassle-Free Placement

With dental restorations that go over the normal teeth, some tooth structure must be removed in order to fit the restoration.

This is true with gold teeth, but because of the strength and composition of gold, only a very small amount of tooth structure has to be removed. This not only allows you to retain more of your natural tooth, but it also makes the process a lot less painful and invasive.

Safety

When it comes to tooth restoration, people often worry about permanently putting a foreign substance into their bodies. However, gold is very compatible with the human body. The chance that you will have an allergy or other negative reaction to a gold tooth is very slight, and the gold tooth will be highly resistant to corrosion.

As long as medical grade gold is used and the restoration is put in properly, you're safe, even if you keep your tooth for the rest of your life.

In all of these ways, a gold tooth can be a great addition to your smile. If you think that you'd like to add a gold tooth to your grin or if you'd like to learn more this option, contact the friendly professionals at Gold Teeth Baton Rouge .

Are Gold Grills Safe for Teeth?

Wed, 31 Jul 2019 02:25:13 GMT

The lux glint of gold in your mouth makes an undeniable impression. But are gold grills for teeth safe? If you have concerns about decorative dental devices, take a look at what you need to know about keeping your mouth healthy with gold in it.

Do Gold Grills Cause Dental Decay?

Can gold grills cause some level of decay? Like any other dental device, a grill can increase the risk. But, with proper care, a grill won't cause decay in and of itself.

To truly understand how a gold grill can impact dental health, you need to know understand how decay (cavities) forms. Bacteria in the mouth produce acids as they digest sugary substances. The more debris and sticky plaque deposits you have, the more food there is for the bacteria to feed on.

The acid byproducts of bacterial digestion wears away the enamel (outer coating) of the teeth. Worn spots allow the bacteria to invade deeper into the tooth, increasing the amount or the severity of the decay.

On its own, a gold grill can't increase bacterial acid production. But leaving the grill in during or after immediately after meals (without cleaning in between) or failure to properly maintain regular dental health can. This makes brushing, flossing, and visiting the dentist absolutely essential if you wear a grill.

Do Gold Grills Cause Gum Disease?

Again, a grill won't cause periodontal (gum) disease on its own. But if food gets caught under the grill or you don't adequately brush or floss in the area, you can develop gum discomfort, pain, redness, swelling, or infection.

Even though dental patients who wear gold grills can develop gum disease, plenty of people who have never used this type of device also have periodontal issues. Gold or a gold grill isn't a primary factor in deteriorating gum health. But poor dental care habits are.

Can Gold Dental Work Make You Sick?

Some dental patients have concerns about metal in their mouth. Older silver amalgam fillings were the target of skepticism, with some questions about the safety of the metal. Even though silver fillings contain mercury, researchers haven't found a connection between amalgam and poisoning from the substance.

Metallic mercury, which is the mercury in fillings, is generally non-toxic-especially in the quantities included in fillings. Even though the risks are slim to none, some dental patients may prefer a non-silver substance. But what about gold? Unlike silver, gold fillings and teeth don't contain mercury. This means there's no reason to worry about mercury toxicity with gold dental devices or fillings.

Will Gold Dental Devices Interfere with an MRI?

MRI scans are necessary to diagnose some medical conditions and provide more information about internal injuries. Some metals can interfere with the powerful magnets used to create diagnostic images. This can lead to misdiagnosis and improper or inadequate treatment.

Like with mercury issues, gold is not a culprit when it comes to MRI interference. Ferromagnetic metals (such as iron, nickel, stainless steel, and cobalt) can cause imagining issues during an MRI. While the small quantity used in most fillings won't interfere with an MRI, your health care provider may recommend removing larger dental devices.

Even though the gold in a grill won't distort or get in the way of a clear MRI picture, you may want to remove the device prior to the imaging test. Holding a grill in your mouth during a potentially lengthy MRI is uncomfortable and may make it challenging to stay still (which is necessary during the test).

Are you considering a gold grill or gold teeth? Contact Gold Teeth Baton Rouge for more information.

5 Stars With Gold Teeth, Grills, or Encrusted Diamonds

Tue, 04 Jun 2019 09:03:27 GMT

Thinking about getting grills? Curious about gold teeth? Then you may want to take inspiration from some of the stars who have already made this decision. Take a look at these five celebrities.

1. Lil Wayne

Lil Wayne is well known for wearing grills, but in 2010, he decided to make a decorative smile a permanent part of his look and embraced diamond encrusted teeth. To have diamonds added to your teeth, the dentist can bond them to your existing enamel, or they can make a small hole and insert the diamond into that.

Prices vary depending on the size and shape of the diamond. If you want sparkle that is a bit easier on the budget, you can opt for different types of jewels.

2. Kendall Jenner

As one of the world's highest-paid models, Kendall Jenner sets many fashion trends, and in early 2017, she showed off some gold teeth in London. Rather than going for a full grill, she simply went with some accents by having a couple of gold teeth on the side of her sparkling white front teeth.

3. Katy Perry

Like Kendall Jenner, Katy Perry has also embraced a subtle effect with her oral diamond. She has a diamond embedded into the fourth tooth on the top of her mouth (if you start counting from the center middle of her smile). However, this diamond isn't her only foray into decorated teeth.

In the past, this pop star has worn a jewel- and diamond-covered grill that is reported to be worth over $1 million. According to the Guinness Book of World Records, this is the most expensive grill in the world.

4. Paul Wall

Known for hits such as "Sittin' Sidewayz", "Trill", and "Swangin' in the Rain" as well as many others, Paul Wall has been a leader in the rap community for well over a decade, and his grill definitely turns heads.

His grill consists of a variety of metals and stones, and aquamarine stones spell out "Paul" on his upper teeth and "Wall" on this lower teeth. He even sang about his grill in Nelly's tune "Grillz": "I got the wrist wear and neck wear that's captivating, but it's what smile that's got these onlookers spectating."

If you want people to spectate at your fancy mouth, you may want to take a cue from Paul and use different color jewels, have a grill for both the top and bottom teeth, or spell out fun words about yourself.

5. Kanye West

Kendall's brother-in-law Kanye West has had grills and diamonds in his mouth since the supermodel was just a child. In 2010, Kanye told Ellen Degeneres, during an interview, that he had his bottom teeth removed to make way for the gold and diamonds.

If you're thinking about grills, this may make you worried, but luckily, you don't need to have your teeth removed. In fact, many people speculate that Kanye exaggerated the dental procedure.

In some cases, you can get your teeth shaved down a bit to make room for gold overlays or other decorations. If your teeth are deteriorating or if you are missing teeth, you may be able to get implants, which feature a titanium root and a prosthetic cap. Then, you can have gold, jewels, or special grills added to the top of the implants.

Ready to learn more about grills and gold teeth? Want to work with a dental professional who specializes in gold teeth? Whether you have a star whose smile you want to emulate or a fun look you've dreamed up on your own, we can help you. To set up an appointment, contact us at Gold Teeth Baton Rouge today.

How to Handle Dental Anxiety

Mon, 22 Apr 2019 15:30:19 GMT

Do dental visits make you anxious? You aren't alone. According to the Cleveland Clinic, anywhere from 9 to 15 percent of people in the United States avoid dental visits out of this fear. If anxiety stops you from walking through the dentist's door, take a look at what you need to know about conquering this phobia.

Learn About the Statistics

While the 9 to 15 percent figure speaks to the general population of U.S. adults who avoid check-ups and procedures due to their dental phobia, some research suggests these numbers are actually higher. That is, depending on the population.

One study, published in the journal BMC Oral Health , found that over 11 percent of 25-year-old Norwegian men and almost 20 percent of women (of the same age and geographic background) had dental anxiety. While this study doesn't specifically include American patients, it does show the prevalence of dental fear among young adults.

Data from another study, also published in BMC Oral Health , showed that over 83 percent of adults with irreversible pulpitis (inflammation of the dental pulp) had moderate to high dental anxiety. Of the patients studied, more than 16 percent of the participants went beyond anxiety of stress and had a dental phobia.

Know the Cause

There isn't one general or blanket reason for developing a dental anxiety or phobia. Understanding the cause of your fear can help you to find the right treatment — making it possible to get the dental treatment you need without unnecessary anxiety.

Common causes of dental anxiety and phobias include:

Previous experiences. A prior traumatic experience at the dentist's office, whether it was when you were young or as an adult, can leave you feeling anxious about the next visit.
Other people's experiences. Learning or hearing about someone else's traumatic dental experience can also contribute to your own feelings of fear.
Personality. Some people are more likely to feel fear or experience anxiety than others. If you're a naturally anxious person, you may feel more stress prior to a dental visit than someone with a lower stress profile.

If you can pinpoint the cause of your stress, talk to the dentist or (depending on the extent of your fear/phobia) a mental health professional about it. The experts understand this issue and can explore options/treatments to help you relax and feel more comfortable during your dental visit.

Understand the Impact

What's the result of your dental anxiety? While office visit avoidance may feel comfortable, this isn't the healthy route to take. There's a reason for following a regular dental check-up schedule — and it's to keep your teeth, gums, and mouth in the best shape possible.

Without regular dental visits you could run the risk of:

Developing gum disease. Red, swollen, bleeding, or painful gums are late signs of gingivitis development. Regular in-office check-ups allow the dentist to catch gum disease before it becomes a major problem.
Dental decay. While you can develop cavities with and without office visits, regular check-ups provide a way to prevent serious decay that may involve more invasive treatments.
Aesthetic issues. Along with preventing serious health-related problems, dental check-ups provide a deep cleaning that leaves you with a bright smile.

If you're still feeling nervous about your next visit, read on to learn about stress-reducing strategies and other office options.

Face the Visit

How can you decrease dental office anxiety? If you've thought the visit through, talked to the dentist (or a mental health professional), and educated yourself on the negative impact of slipping preventative care, and you still don't want to go:

Bring a distraction. Ask the dentist if you can bring along your phone and earbuds to listen to a favorite playlist or audio book during your check-up.
Breathe deeply. Deep breaths or another similar relaxation technique may help.
Try sedation. Sedation dentistry allows you to rest during your visit or procedure.

Along with these options, consider bringing a friend along with you. The moral support can ease your fears, decrease anxiety, and help you to relax.

Do you need to visit the dentist? Contact Rabel Family Dentistry for more information.

Interested in Gold Grills? Make Sure to Perform Proper Maintenance

Mon, 08 Apr 2019 02:00:24 GMT

High-quality gold grills provide a unique fashion statement for both young and mature individuals. However, these dental tools require proper maintenance to ensure that they don't trigger issues with a person's dental health. Thankfully, these care maintenance techniques take little time to perform and can be done with little difficulty.

Grills Provide Many Benefits

High-quality golden grills provide many attractive benefits that make them worth an investment. For example, those who want to create a specific pop-star style may appreciate grills. A large number of pop musicians, including rappers and singers, use grills to create a gritty, yet attractive, look that is hard to generate with any other type of dental accessory.

However, gold grills provide more than a simple aesthetic improvement. Grills also protect the teeth from damage by blocking plaque and food from where the grills are installed. For example, the teeth on which the grills rest may not suffer from debris stuck between their sides because the grill's surface blocks these bits of food from entering.

That said, grills may trigger dental issues if individuals don't properly clean them. For example, the sides of the grills may trap some bacteria and plaque against the surface of the tooth and trigger decay. Thankfully, maintenance isn't too hard and should only require a few minutes every day.

Grill Care Techniques

Those who want grills need to regularly remove them and clean off any stains and food on their surface. Perform grill maintenance at least twice a day - when brushing the teeth - to ensure that they don't wear down or trigger any dental issues. Start by taking them out in the morning - if worn while sleeping - and rinse them off with warm water in a sink.

Warm water breaks apart stains and other debris from the grill surface. After rinsing the grill off for a few minutes, brush the surface with a soft-bristled brush. Pay particular attention to the spots that rest between the teeth. These areas often experience high concentrations of food and prove most difficult to clean when trying to brush or floss the teeth properly after a meal.

After finishing with the brushing, place the grills in a glass filled with hydrogen peroxide. This solution will kill any bacteria or germs lingering on the grills. Let the grills soak for at least 3-5 minutes before removing them from the solution. Rinse them with another burst of warm water and use a soft towel to wipe away excess peroxide. After another rinse with warm water, pat them dry.

While the grills soak in the peroxide, make sure to brush the teeth over which they fit. Doing so breaks apart any plaque or bacteria lingering on the surface. Just as importantly, make sure to floss between the teeth and use mouthwash to disinfect the mouth further and prevent damage triggered by improper grill maintenance.

And occasionally make sure to shine the grills with a gold cleaner to make the surface shine. Many types of non-toxic gold cleaners are on the market, so choose one that fits the needs of your grills. After applying the cleaner, rinse off the residue with warm water and pat the surface dry. Either replace the grills on your teeth or keep them out, depending on your personal preference.

Dental Help is Critical for Grills

The benefits of gold grills far outweigh any negatives but only if you take proper care of these oral health tools. So if you are interested in grills or want to know more about their benefits, please don't hesitate to contact us at Gold Teeth Baton Rouge right away. Our experts will work hard to find the best grills for your needs and will fit them to your teeth properly.

Should You Choose Dental Crowns or Dental Bonding?

Fri, 22 Feb 2019 00:00:00 GMT

There are many ways you can change and/or improve the appearance and functionality of your smile. If you're not quite happy with your smile because of poor genetics, trauma, or bad oral hygiene, you may consider dental crowns or dental bonding. Both have their own pros and cons to consider, so check out these questions to help you decide.

What Aesthetic Issues Do You Want to Correct?

Dental crowns and dental bonding fix many cosmetic issues. They hide stains that are resistant to teeth-whitening (such as discoloration from damaged dentin), and they can make your teeth look even in length, less crowded/gapped, etc. If you choose dental bonding, composite crowns, or porcelain crowns, the dentist can even match the color to the shade of white you want.

Dental crowns also come in metal, including gold. Gold crowns offer a different aesthetic appearance, and many people choose them for this unique style. Gold crowns have many benefits over other types of crowns and dental bonding. Their biggest benefit is their ability to seal the tooth well and resist cracking.

Are Your Teeth Damaged From Trauma or Poor Hygiene?

Dental bonding and crowns can both fix trauma, but depending on the severity, dental crowns may be best. If you have a few chips or cracks on your teeth, dental bonding is great at sealing the damage to prevent further decay or infection. This material is even used to create tooth-colored fillings on front and back teeth.

If your teeth are severely damaged, however, a dental crown can help to re-strengthen the tooth. All dental crowns help strengthen teeth, but because gold is more durable, it is less likely to experience damage, which may allow bacteria to enter. With dental crowns, your dentist may even be able to rebuild and secure a broken tooth.

What's Your Budget?

Your budget may determine if dental bonding or crowns are better because dental bonding is more affordable. On average, you may spend about $300 to $600 per tooth for cosmetic dental bonding. Unfortunately, dental bonding for cosmetic reasons is usually not covered by insurance because it isn't considered medically necessary.

Dental crowns are more expensive, but insurance may cover some of the cost if you need them to repair or strengthen teeth. For porcelain crowns , you may pay $800 to $3,000, and noble metal crowns, such as metal, cost about $600 to $2,500. Regardless of which option you choose, you'll likely have to have your crowns replace and/or the bonding material fixed at some point.

Do You Want an Immediate Solution?

Finally, consider when you want your results. Dental crowns take longer because they are made in a lab. Your dentist needs to take molds so the lab can craft a crown that will fit properly and look great. Your teeth need to be filed down before the mold can be made. Therefore, while the permanent crowns are made, you'll need to wear temporaries to protect your tooth.

Dental bonding, however, can be done in a single visit because the dentist applies the bonding material directly to your teeth and then shapes them by hand. In many cases, no enamel even needs to be removed. Once the bonding material is cured, you can leave the office with your new smile.

Whether you want perfectly straight white teeth or gold crowns, we at Gold Teeth Baton Rouge can help. You'll get the attractive smile you want, and your teeth get better protected from decay and infections. For more information about crowns, bonding or other procedures to enhance your smile, contact us today, so we can get your first appointment scheduled.

Waiting fora Gold Crown: What Temporary Coverage Will You Need?

Tue, 06 Nov 2018 08:58:51 GMT

Gold is one of the best materials for restorative dental options, such as crowns. Gold crowns are great for people who suffer from metal allergies. They are impermeable and corrosion-resistant, and they can withstand biting forces nearly as well as enamel.

Before you get your gold crown, you'll need to wait for some time while dental technicians make the crown in the laboratory based on your bite registration and impressions.

Although you may be eager to get your crown right away, your dentist first needs to make sure the crown is a perfect fit. In the meantime, your dentist will fit you with a temporary, or provisional, tooth. Temporary coverage is important, as your prepared enamel may have some exposed dentin that needs to be protected from pressure, infection, and high and low temperatures.

The following are some temporary materials to consider while you wait for your gold crown.

Intermediate Restorative Materials (IRM)

IRMs are made up of zinc oxide-eugenol. Eugenol is derived from clove oil, which is known to have antiinflammatory and antiseptic properties. So if you are an individual who has trouble healing - for example, if you have diabetes - this restorative material can be very beneficial.

Because they can shield the site from extreme temperatures, IRMS can also help reduce issues from naturally sensitive teeth or gums and exposed dentin.

If you are getting a gold crown with gold inlays or onlays, IRMs are also a good choice. Gold inlays and onlays are similar to regular fillings, but while regular fillings can be made in a dental office, inlays and onlays have to be made in a lab like a crown.

It can be hard to place temporaries for inlays/onlays, so IRMs are great because they are very malleable and can be sculpted to fit. Your dentist will use an instrument called a condenser to pack the IRM into the prepared area. Once the material is packed in, your dentist will use a carver, an instrument that can be used to contour and remove extra material.

Acrylic Temporaries

Some temporaries are more difficult to place than others. Acrylic is a very common dental material, and it's easier to place than other temporaries. If you've had issues with restorations in the past, you and your dentist may decide to go this route. This temporary also works well when you need a temporary for multiple teeth or anterior teeth.

Instead of placing a filler material or placing a temporary crown, your dentist will load the acrylic into a custom tray or alginate impression. He or she will then slip the tray over your teeth like a mouth guard and have you bite down until the temporary hardens. Once the temporary sets, the dentist will remove the tray and smooth any rough edges with a bur.

Preformed Crowns

As the name suggests, preformed crowns look very similar to permanent crowns. Preformed crowns can be made from polymers or polycarbonates. These crowns are manufactured in all sorts of sizes, so your dentist will try to find one that is a close fit. It won't fit snuggly like a final crown, but preformed crowns are fantastic temporaries for both front and back teeth. Once your dentist selects a temporary, he or she will place it over your tooth and cement it.

The great benefit of preformed crowns is their low cost. However, moisture can easily seep up underneath the crown shells if the fit isn't right. If you cannot find a good fit with a preformed crown, it's better to choose a different alternative.

For more information on crown temporaries, contact Gold Teeth Baton Rouge . You will want to consult with us to see which temporary would be best before your gold crown is placed.

Should You Use Bonding or Cementing for Gold Crowns?

Tue, 06 Nov 2018 08:58:36 GMT

Some people think that the only way to deal with a severely damaged tooth is to extract it. Today, however, dentists can restore teeth in many ways.

Your dentist's goal is to help you maintain as much of your natural tooth as you can, and a gold crown can protect what’s left. Dentists can place crowns over fractured teeth and teeth that need root canals or cannot support fillings.

Gold crowns have many benefits, including:

Resistance to galvanic charge
Resistance to wear and tear
Improved tooth integrity

Gold is also a great choice for those with metal allergies.

If gold crowns sound like a good choice, you'll also need to figure out whether you want them bonded or cemented.

Cemented crowns are sealed, or luted, to a tooth. Luting agents basically glue a restoration to a tooth. Luting agents will link the gold crown (or another prosthesis) to the prepared enamel.

When a dentist bonds a crown to a tooth, they use an etching system and light curing system. First, the dentist performs acid etching, using maleic or phoric acid gel to roughen the surface of the enamel. This rough surface helps to retain the bonding material.

When the dentist places the bonding agent, they use a curing light to harden the material. Instead of just physically attaching or cementing the gold crown, bonding systems chemically alter substances for a stronger seal.

Like any dental procedure, each method had pros and cons.

The Pros and Cons of Cementing
While bonding is often seen as a superior solution because of its strength, it may not be the right fit for you. For example, if your teeth are very prone to decay, you may want to stick with cementing. Cements are made of thin films, so it takes less time to remove a cemented crown. If you had frequent cavities in the past, you may want to cement the gold crown so a dentist can easily check underneath if needed.

Some cements, like glass ionomer cement, are designed to help those with receding gum lines or erosion. Glass ionomer cement slowly releases fluoride, so again, if you have had frequent decay or a root canal, this cement can stop recurring issues by remineralizing teeth.

The big downside of cement is that the restoration won't be as strong as it could be. Over time, natural chewing forces will weaken the cement and loosen the crown.

The Pros and Cons of Bonding
If an external event — like a sports injury — caused damage to your tooth, then bonding may be better. With only external damage, you don’t need to worry about any decay.

One great benefit of bonding is that the restoration margins look better than cemented ones. A margin is simply the boundary at the gumline between a restoration and the natural tooth. For example, porcelain-fused-to-metal crowns are notorious for having dark lines in the marginal area, as the metal portion of the crown is exposed.

Besides improved aesthetics, the biggest benefit is strength. Nothing beats the strength of your natural teeth, but gold comes pretty close. Your gold crown will last you a very long time, so with good care, you won't have to worry about replacing it often.

Go to a dentist who is experienced in bonding techniques, as a downside of bonding is the extended prep work. Preparation requires adequately cleaning the site of moisture and isolating the tooth. An experienced dentist will make quick work of both the prep and the procedure.

You will want to talk with a dentist for more information on gold crown placement. Contact Gold Teeth Baton Rouge for professional services today.

Do I Need to Shave My Teeth for Gold Crowns?

Fri, 22 Jun 2018 00:00:00 GMT

The thought of having your teeth filed or shaved might be a bit unsettling, but shaving is often an important step in ensuring that your gold crowns fit perfectly. When done by a professional dental artist, the process of installing permanent gold crowns is generally painless and you should be able to get your bedazzled choppers in a few hours.

If you are considering permanent gold crowns, here's what you should know about tooth shaving.

Tooth shaving, also known as shaping, stripping, sanding, or filing, involves removing a small amount of enamel from the tooth. During the procedure, the dentist uses specific tools to sand down and shape the edges of your teeth. Afterward, the dentist will level and polish the tooth surface in preparation for the new gold crown.

Because shaving removes a layer of enamel from your teeth, you should practice proper dental hygiene even if you plan to have gold crowns mounted.

Although tooth shaving removes enamel, the tooth's protective component, the layer that your dentist will shave off is very thin and will not compromise the strength of your teeth. However, patients who have already lost a significant amount of enamel may experience heightened sensitivity following a tooth shaving procedure.

Overall, tooth shaving does not have any adverse side effects. Even during the reshaping process, you should not experience adverse pain, and anesthetic is not necessary. You may, however, experience slight discomfort from the vibration of the shaving tool.

On average, the process takes about half an hour to an hour, depending on how much filing your teeth need to achieve the desired shape. After shaving, your dentist will create a mold out of your newly shaped teeth and send this to a dental laboratory to fabricate your crown.

Tooth shaving is necessary to properly install permanent gold crowns. This procedure offers several benefits.

Tooth Shaping

Shaving reduces the size of your tooth, but more importantly, the process allows your dentist to achieve a specific tooth shape to improve the overall aesthetics of the crown.

Crown Stability

A crown must be stable and attach firmly to the tooth to avoid potential dental health issues. Although dental cement helps to hold down the crown, a poorly shaped tooth could easily compromise the crown's grip. Your dentist will need to taper the upper part of your tooth to ensure proper fit and adequate retention.

Tooth Alignment

In case of extensive decay or tooth chipping, shaving can help to realign the teeth and remove sharp and uneven edges prior to installing the gold crown.

If your teeth have suffered considerable decay, your dentist must fill up and then shape the tooth to a desired height and shape in preparation for crown installation.

On average, expect to pay $50 and $300 per tooth or more for a tooth shaving procedure. However, these costs may vary depending on the amount of work your teeth need. The cost of tooth shaving might also vary if done as part of installing permanent gold crowns. Consult with your dentist about what you can expect to pay and for ideas on how to finance this cosmetic dental procedure.

Investing in permanent gold crowns is certainly a fabulous way to make a statement. However, be sure to have a professional cosmetic dentist install your crowns to minimize the risk of dental complications.

If you are looking for gold teeth dentists in Baker, LA, and surrounding areas, get in touch with Gold Teeth Baton Rouge for professional application of 22-karat gold crowns and composite bonding. Contact us today.

Debunking 3 Common Myths Associated With Gold Grills

Mon, 11 Jun 2018 00:00:00 GMT

Whether you want to enhance your appearance or restore a smile that has been damaged by severe staining, decay, or an injury, crowns are excellent options. Available in a variety of materials and styles, these crowns are placed onto the teeth, restoring and protecting your smile in a truly effective manner.

Unfortunately, most people do not fully understand the benefits of these crowns because they believe a few common myths. By debunking these myths, your dentist will help you learn if gold crowns are right for you and your smile.

Gold Crowns Harm the Teeth

Bonding a gold material directly to your teeth may seem like a dangerous idea. In some instances, this bonding can harm the teeth. However, the bonding process is conducted in the safest, most effective manner possible, so there is no risk of tooth damage.

After a full exam and consultation to determine, the 22-karat gold crowns are placed onto the teeth. This process does not use glue to affix the gold crowns to the tooth, which protects the teeth from any damage.

Only Rappers Have Gold Teeth

Another common misconception many people have is that only rappers choose to have gold teeth. Again, this is not true, but it is helpful to learn some history behind the use of gold in dentistry.

Most people are surprised to learn that the use of gold in dentistry dates back 4,000 years ago. Gold was used to fill in blackened, decayed, or discolored teeth. Of course, only the wealthy and most important individuals were able to use gold, so gold teeth became known as symbols of wealth, power, and status.

Due to their luxurious nature and reputation, many rappers find gold teeth to be appealing, but they are not the only ones who choose the attractive and durable gold for their own smiles.

Today, many celebrities, athletes, and even non-famous individuals opt for gold crowns to improve their smiles. Therefore, they are not only associated with rappers. If you are experiencing the following, you are most likely a great candidate for gold crowns:

Discolored or severely-stained teeth
Damaged or decayed tooth
Misshaped tooth

In addition to the above, gold crowns can be used to protect an unhealthy tooth that is at risk of fracturing. Crowns are also beneficial for supporting bridges if you are in need of this type of smile restoration.

Last, but definitely not least, gold crowns are ideal for anyone who wants to restore their smile in a custom and stylish manner that will stand the test of time.

Although it is true many rappers wear gold teeth, these crowns are perfectly suitable for most anyone.

Gold Crowns Are Difficult to Maintain

Finally, many people believe gold is too difficult to maintain, but that is also a myth that should be addressed. While it is a precious metal, gold is incredibly durable, so maintaining the crowns while maintaining your oral health will not be as overwhelming as you may think.

Brushing and flossing as normal is recommended. Therefore, make sure you are brushing your teeth and gold crowns twice a day. Use a soft-bristled brush to protect your tooth enamel, gum tissue, and the gold used in your crowns.

Also, schedule routine checkups with your dentist-even after you have your gold crowns. Again, gold is a durable material, but the crowns are not meant to last a lifespan. With proper care, you can expect your gold crowns to last at least 10 years.

Improving, restoring, and protecting your smile is possible with gold crowns, but proper understanding is key. To learn more about gold crowns, contact Gold Teeth Baton Rouge today.

2 Easy Ways to Make Your Teeth More Beautiful

Tue, 01 May 2018 00:00:00 GMT

How do you feel about your smile? If there are things about it that you want to change, then you are only limited by your imagination. Advances in dentistry and dental cosmetics have broadened the scope of smile design, allowing patients to work with their dentist to make their teeth look perfect. Here are two easy ways to make your teeth more beautiful, and how your dentist can help.

1. Have Those Gaps Filled

Although most people assume that issues like dental gaps can only be repaired through lengthy orthodontic care, dentists can actually fill voids between the teeth with tooth-colored composite resins. Made from a mix of durable adhesives and ground ceramic, modern composite resins are available in an astonishing array of tooth shades and opacity levels, allowing dentists to create seamless repairs.

In addition to filling in gaps between the teeth, dentists can also use composite resins to correct issues like misshapen tooth edges or dental fractures. Modern composites are made to mesh microscopically with dental enamel and the underlying dentin, creating incredibly durable restorations that will stand the test of time. In fact, modern composites even flex with the tooth, preventing problems like chipping.

One of the best things about composite resin repairs is that they are well tolerated by patients, especially since they don't always require anesthetic injections. After the tooth is cleaned and dried, dentists apply a thin layer of etching compound onto the tooth to improve the bond between the enamel and the resin.

Next, dentists select a composite shade, pipe it into place, and shape it around the tooth. After the material has cured with the help of a UV light, it can be shaped and polished like the rest of the teeth.

2. Consider Dental Jewelry

Sometimes, patients want more than a white, symmetrical smile. If you are want something a little different for your teeth, then consider talking with your dentist about dental jewelry. From gleaming gold crowns to removable grills filled with rows of sparkling diamonds, dental jewelry can set your smile apart.

If you are considering dental jewelry, think about how often you want to enjoy those decorative touches. While many entertainers or musicians like permanent dental jewelry to give them a signature look, others prefer removable pieces that they can use from time to time to give their style an extra pop for the day.

Before you meet with your dentist, evaluate your needs to decide what kind of décor would work best for you.

If you like the idea of permanent dental jewelry but you prefer a more low-key look, then consider a small tooth gem or golden dental accent instead of a larger grill or full gold crown. These additions are cemented in place, giving your teeth a little sparkle whenever you smile. However, if you decide to have them removed, they can be polished away quickly and easily.

On the other hand, if you need dental restorations in addition to an aesthetic update, then gold crowns might be the perfect solution for you. In addition to being incredibly biocompatible, gold crowns are resistant to wear and tear and can be installed on healthy teeth as well as teeth that need a crown to protect their structural integrity.

Whether you are looking for a more symmetrical smile or you have been dreaming about a diamond-encrusted grill all your own, we can help you here at Gold Teeth Baton Rouge . For decades, our experienced dentist has been helping everyone from rap artists to creative masterminds design smiles that fit their personal style. Visit our office today to see what we can do for you.

3 Neat Facts About Dental Bonding

Mon, 12 Feb 2018 00:00:00 GMT

When you want a smile that shines like the golden sun, you might be worried about what to do about those chips and dental damage before you get started. Fortunately, through the art of adhesive dentistry, your cosmetic dentist can make your smile look perfect-creating an ideal canvas for additions like gold grills. Here are three neat facts about dental bonding, and why you should talk to your dentist about this simple, economical procedure.

Composite Resins Bind To Enamel

Made to mimic the molecular structure of your own natural teeth, composite resins actually bond directly to your natural dental enamel. Composite resins are a mix of durable resin, ground ceramic, and food-safe plastic compounds, all mixed together to create a tooth-colored filling material.

To apply composite resins, the tooth is first cleaned and dried carefully. Next, the dentist applies an acidic compound to the surface of the tooth to create a rough area that will improve adhesion between the resin and your dental enamel. After the acidic solution has done its job, the tooth will be rinsed and dried again, and then the composite resin will be piped into place, then cured with a UV light.

Because your dentist will match the color of the composite resin to your natural tooth, repairs are beautiful and completely invisible to the naked eye. Additionally, modern composite resins mimic the natural opacity of your teeth, making repairs even more seamless.

Although the composite resins used in adhesive dentistry are designed to bond to dental enamel, they can also bond to dentin, giving dentists even more opportunities to preserve and beautify your smile.

Bonding Doesn't Require Anesthetic

Because all of the procedures involved in cosmetic dental bonding are conducted on the surface of the teeth, the entire process doesn't usually require anesthetic, creating a more comfortable experience for patients. In fact, the only you need an anesthetic during dental bonding is when your dentist has to drill away decay first.

This aspect of dental bonding makes it easier for people to get dental work done since they won't have to worry about eating, drinking, or talking after their dental appointment. Instead of having a numb mouth or a droopy smile for a few hours afterward, they can return to work or school immediately following their appointment.

Dental Bonding Resolves A Long List of Problems

As a non-invasive dental restoration that looks completely natural, dental bonding can help dentists to resolve an expansive list of problems, including teeth that are gapped, chipped, pitted, fractured, severely discolored, small, or strangely shaped.

In addition to resolving cosmetic dental problems, dental bonding can also be used to seal the surface of the tooth in the event of a crack or a larger fracture. After the area is cleaned and sanitized, dentists can place composite resins in the crack to restore structural integrity to the tooth-while protecting it from future decay.

In fact, dental bonding is so incredibly versatile that it can even be used to create entire smile makeovers. While you may need to lengthen one tooth, other spots may need to be brightened or filled in. Also, since bonding material cures in seconds with the help of a UV light, repairs are fast and incredibly efficient.

When performed by a trained dentist with experience in adhesive dentistry, dental bonding has a lifespan of around 10 years , making it an easy, economical option for many people.

Whether you have been living with a gap between your two front teeth or you are ready to splurge on that gorgeous gold crown, Gold Teeth Baton Rouge can help. With decades worth of experience and a firm commitment to create an excellent experience for each of their patients, this dental practice can help you to take your look into 2018.

Dental Insurance Coverage For Gold Alloy Crowns

Fri, 15 Dec 2017 00:00:00 GMT

The cost of a dental crown varies based on the region of the country where you live, whether you live in an urban or rural area, the dentist's experience, and the kind of material used to make the crown. Some dental insurances include crowns as a covered service and pay around 50% of the cost . However, policy limitations and restrictions on coverage usually apply.

Payment of Dental Benefits

Generally, you must first meet the policy's annual deductible before the insurance company starts to pay your dental expenses. Since dental insurers typically don't cover crowns for cosmetic purposes, many dental plans require preauthorization before covering a crown placement procedure.

As part of the preauthorization process, your dentist will likely need to submit dental x-rays and notes from your dental record as proof that you need a crown. Your dentist may recommend a dental crown to reinforce a tooth following root canal treatment, strengthen a tooth that has too little tooth structure left to hold a filling, or restore a badly decayed tooth.

Policy Restrictions and Limitations

Dental policies often have restrictions and limitations. For instance, a plan may not cover placement of a crown if it has already paid the policy's maximum benefits limit for the year. Some insurers base the oneyear period on the calendar year while others base it on 12 months from the date the policy becomes effective.

Dental plans often include limitations on coverage for a replacement crown. Since a dentist usually spends as much time replacing a dental crown as they did placing the original crown, the cost for a replacement crown is about the same. Because of this, many dental plans only provide coverage if the original crown lasts for a specific number of years.

Cost of Dental Crown Alloys

Dental crowns made from either precious or non-precious alloys aren't pure metals, but rather are made from a combination of metals. However, some alloys have a higher precious metal content than others; therefore, crowns made from certain dental alloys cost more. If you have dental insurance, your plan should describe the types of metal crowns it will cover, as well as how much coverage it provides.

Noble metals such as gold, platinum, and palladium are more expensive than non-noble dental metal alloys like nickel, copper, titanium, silver, and zinc. The more gold or other precious metal used in the alloy, the more expensive the crown will be.

On average, metal crowns constructed of gold alloy cost around $2,500 or more for a single tooth. The cost of a crown for a front tooth or bicuspid is generally the same. Crowns made for molars at the back of the mouth are larger and require more metal, which increases their cost.

A dentist may base the cost of a crown made from a precious metal, like gold, on how many ounces of the metal it takes to make the crown. Because the price of gold fluctuates, the market price of gold at the time affects the cost.

Discount Pricing

Discount dental plans can save you money on the cost of dental crowns, including those made from gold alloys. Different from dental insurance, discount plans negotiate with dentists in an area to charge a set price for dental crown placement and other dental procedures.

Even if you have dental insurance, the insurer may require that you choose a provider from the insurance company's list of approved or in-network dentists. If you are enrolled as a member in a dental PPO (Preferred Provider Organization), the plan may allow you to use any dentist, but it will cost you less to use a network dentist.

If you have questions about the advantages and cost of gold dental crowns, the dental professionals of Gold Teeth Baton Rouge are prepared to give you the information you need.

Gold Crowns vs. Grills: Questions to Ask Yourself

Mon, 14 Aug 2017 00:00:00 GMT

You want a celeb-worthy smile. But, you're not 100% sure if you're into the gold look for the long haul. Sure, gold teeth are I-T now. Superstars are sporting gold smiles and you're ready to commit to that stylishly expensive look. Wait just a moment. Are you completely certain that you want a mouth full of gold forever?

Even if your teeth aren't exactly in top shape, replacing them with gold crowns is a permanent fix. Before you commit, ask yourself a few questions. Along with these questions, compare the other options – making a mental list of the pros and cons of gold crowns vs. a gold grill.

Is It Purely a Style Thing?

Why do want gold crowns? Is it because someone famous has them? Or, is it because of you really, truly like the look? If your decision is based on the fact that the paparazzi keep snapping pics of celebs with gold smiles, crowns may not be the way to go. A mouth filled with (or at least partially filled with) gold crowns is pretty permanent. Yes, you can replace the gold with porcelain crowns later on. But, this can be costly and painful.

If you're not sure about your commitment to crowns, a gold grill may be a better choice. You'll still have a mouth full of bling, but you can take it off and leave it at home when you want your regular pearly whites to shine through.

Of course, if gold teeth really, truly appeal to you (and you don't care who else is wearing them), crowns may be okay.

How Easy Is It to Care for Gold?

This is where gold crowns may rule. You don't need to worry about special care with them. You have to continue brushing at least twice a day for two minutes each time, along with flossing. This is in addition to keeping your regularly scheduled dentist appointments. The crowns become part of your mouth. As part of your mouth, you need to care for them like you would your own natural teeth.

When it comes to gold grills, maintenance may pose a greater challenge. Even though you can take them off and brush your real teeth, you need to be vigilant about your at-home care. If pieces of food get caught in the area between your grill and your teeth or gums, you're putting yourself at risk for decay. Not only can this cause cavitiy and gum disease, but it can also make your breath smell – well, not so sweet. Taking the grill out periodically, including when you eat, can help to reduce the risks that plaque presents. Along with brushing and flossing regularly, you also need to clean the grill separately. This can minimize bacterial growth and make it smell fresh. Talk to your dentist about how to clean your gold grill and what to clean it with.

Never use gold or jewelry polishes or cleaners to keep your gold crowns or grill shiny and bright. These are poisonous and not meant for your mouth.

Are Gold Crowns Fixes for Broken Teeth?

Yes! Long before gold crowns were fashionable, dentists used them to replace broken, cracked and chipped teeth. As technology advanced, porcelain became the material of choice for crowns. Why? It looks natural and gives dental patients a natural smile. But, that doesn't mean you can't still choose gold to complete a broken tooth or as part of a dental implant (a full tooth replacement). Keep in mind; gold crowns are stronger than porcelain ones. Along with the look of gold, you'll also get a crown that's more chip-resistant than the tooth-colored version.

Are you ready for gold crowns or a grill? Call Gold Teeth Baton Rouge at 225-775-0160 for an appointment.

3 Things Dental Patients Need to Know About Gold Teeth

Mon, 26 Jun 2017 00:00:00 GMT

When you think about gold teeth, you may picture any number of versions of gold teeth, such as the grills sported by rap and hip hop artists to antique dentures you might see in a museum. Gold has long been used in dentistry for fillings, crowns, and even complete tooth replacement.
In fact, while many patients assume that gold is a specialty material or is no longer used, gold can sometimes still be the best option for dental work, even when compared to modern alternatives.

In this blog, here are three things you should know if you’re considering gold teeth.

Why Do Dentists Use Gold?

The inside of the human mouth is an inhospitable environment. The teeth in particular have to endure large amounts of pressure, high exposure to corrosive foods and beverages, and an enormous concentration of naturally occurring bacteria that must be kept in check to avoid decay.

In order for a material to be practical for use in the mouth, the material must be able to withstand these everyday stressors without cracking or corroding. Gold adheres easily to tooth enamel and thus resists the issues that can arise when using other materials for dental work.

Gold was one of the first materials used for modern dental applications, like tooth fillings. At the time, gold was much more readily available than silver, especially in the smaller quantities needs for dentistry.

Additionally, gold is one of the most malleable natural metals. This malleability allows dentists to shape gold dental appliances into the precise shape required for an application. The flexibility of gold alloys and gold foil has made and continues to make gold dental work some of the most precise and best fitting available.

Over time, gold expands and wears in a manner that's similar to natural teeth, making it one of the longest lasting dental materials available.

When Would Gold Be the Best Material Choice?

In its early usage, gold was the most common supplemental dental material. Today, many dentists opt to use other metals and substances like dental resin for the majority of dental work.
However, this shifting in the industry has not rendered dental gold obsolete. Your dentist may recommend gold when:

The dental work you need is confined to the back teeth where the color of the supplemental material is not a primary concern
You experience allergic reactions to other common dental metals
You have a history of cracking fillings or crowns made out of weaker materials

Of course, gold is also the material of choice for cosmetic dental work where the goal is to give one or more a false gold facade.

Do You Have to Go to a Special Type of Dentist to Have Gold Work Done?

If you need work performed on an existing gold dental appliance, most dentists will be able to provide you with basic care and recommendations.

However, if you have a strong preference for gold fillings, caps, and crowns or want custom gold work done, you should look for a dentist who specializes in dental gold.

These specialty dental care providers tend to have more of the materials on hand necessary for new gold dental work and the experience required to provide you with the desired results.

If you have more questions about dental gold, discuss your concerns with the expert team at Gold Teeth Baton Rouge . We specialize in dental gold, from cosmetic uses like grills, to practical applications such as fillings and crowns.

We can help you decide if gold is the right dental replacement material for missing teeth or the best option to repair and prevent future tooth decay.

7 Golden Facts About Gold Teeth and Grills

Fri, 14 Apr 2017 00:00:00 GMT

Gold teeth and grills are popular right now, but they aren't new. In fact, this "trend" has been around since ancient times, and thousands of years later, it still shows no signs of slowing down. If you love gold teeth or grills, you'll love these fun facts as well.

1. Ancient Egyptians Did Not Invent Gold Teeth

Through the years, there has been a lot of speculation that the ancient Egyptians created gold teeth, but new analysis indicates this idea may be wrong. Here's the background to the story: several years ago, archaeologists found two teeth wrapped in a piece of gold wire with a deceased body from ancient Egypt. They immediately assumed that the person had those gold teeth in his mouth.

However, later analysis suggested that it's unlikely that those teeth were in actually in the person's mouth. It's more likely that he had lost some teeth and was wearing them as a pendant necklace on a gold wire.

2. Etruscans Invented Gold Teeth

Now, historians believe that Etruscans were the real founders of gold teeth. The Etruscans were a wealthy society living in present-day Italy. They lived in the area from about 800 BC until they were overtaken by the Romans in 200 BC.

3. Mayans Used Gemstones

Decorating teeth wasn't just popular in ancient Europe. On the other side of the world, ancient Mayans were also embellishing their teeth with precious materials. Instead of gold, however, they embedded jewels like jade in their teeth.

4. Gold Fillings Are Older Than Amalgam Fillings

Eventually, gold wasn't just used for decoration. In the 1800s, dentists started to use gold as a functional material for filling teeth with cavities. In fact, gold fillings are older than amalgam fillings, and by extension, that makes them much older than composite or porcelain fillings.

5. Nelly's "Grillz" Video Renewed Popularity

Although gold teeth and grills have been around for millennia, they tend to go up and down in popularity. In 2005, this dental option again peaked in popularity. This happened in response to a song by Nelly called "Grillz."

In his song, Nelly tells listeners to "add the whole top diamond and the bottom row's gold". He compared grills to "little ice cube blocks" much like a "smile on the rocks," and he claimed that with a grill, his mouth looked like a "disco ball." He also accurately forecast that an "epidemic" was about to start. Grills and gold teeth have continued to be popular since the release of that tune.

6. Grills Cost Different Prices

Lil Wayne’s grill reportedly cost $150,000. However, not all grills are that expensive. It is possible to get grills for several hundred. The costs vary a lot depending on the style you want and how much gold or jewels are involved. Your dentist can give you an estimate.

7. Some of the Biggest Stars Have Had Grills

When it comes to gold teeth and grills, Nelly and Lil Wayne certainly are not the only stars who have had them. Many big names through multiple parts of the entertainment sphere have had gold grills or teeth. That includes Madonna, Lady Gaga, Rihanna, Miley Cyrus and Beyonce, as well as many other stars.

Katy Perry even showed up to the MTV Music Awards in 2013 wearing a jewel-encrusted grill. The jewels spelled out "Roar," an oft used word in one of her hit songs.

If you want to join the ranks of ancient royalty and modern pop stars, it may be time to get a grill. Contact us at Gold Teeth Baton Rouge to set up an appointment.

What to Know About Getting Gold Teeth

Mon, 20 Feb 2017 00:00:00 GMT

Many people all over the world have gold teeth . Most people get one because they like how it looks in their smiles. If a gold tooth seems like it would be something you would be interested in, there are a few things to know beforehand.

Part of a Dental Implant

You may hear people talk about getting a permanent gold tooth. A permanent tooth is more professionally know as a dental implant. This is when a small implant is inserted into your jawbone where it fuses with the bone tissue. The crown, your new gold tooth, will then be placed on top of the implant. Due to the durability of most structures, most gold teeth installed this way end up lasting a lifetime.

Gold Crown After a Root Canal

You do not have to get your gold tooth as part of an implant. You can simply get a gold crown placed over a tooth that has received a root canal. The reason why this is preferred is because a root canal will remove the nerve from a tooth, preventing it from feeling any sensations. A gold tooth can be sensitive to extreme temperatures the first couple of months after getting it, but with no underlying nerve, you will not have to worry about that at all.

Are you interested in getting a gold tooth? Contact Gold Teeth Baton Rouge at 225-775-0160 to learn more about them.

Advantages of Having Gold Teeth

Wed, 28 Dec 2016 00:00:00 GMT

Having a gold tooth is typically considered to be a fad of the past. However, many people these days still opt for gold teeth . When you need a dental restoration, consider the benefits of having gold as the material.

Great Protection

Gold is a highly durable substance. It is very difficult to chip and crack, so once you get your gold tooth, you will not have to worry about it breaking down for a while. You can eat whatever you like, and it is not going to damage the metal.

Creative Flourish

Some patients get gold restorations installed in the back of the mouth. Other people choose to get it more toward the front, so it becomes a fixture of the smile. It all comes down to the image you want to convey to others, and many people enjoy having a unique set of teeth.

Long-Lasting Aesthetics

With other restorations, it is possible it may start to lose its luster over time. They may not break, but they start to fade and dim in quality. Gold is not going to oxidize, so the restoration is not going to experience discoloration.

If this sounds interesting to you, then ask your dentist about getting a gold tooth. Find a dentist to do this for you by contacting Gold Teeth Baton Rouge at 225-775-0160.

Reasons to Consider Dental Bonding

Fri, 28 Oct 2016 00:00:00 GMT

Dental bonding is a cosmetic procedure that can make a patient’s teeth look more whole and free of discoloration. Many people find that they qualify for this treatment, and if there are aesthetic flaws in your smile you want to fix, then it can really be worthwhile.

Fixes a Number of Cosmetic Problems

Dental bonding is not used to treat health problems within a smile, so if you suffer from gum disease or tooth decay, then bonding cannot work. However, if there is just a minor flaw you want to even out, then bonding is highly viable. Some of the problems bonding can be used for include:

Discoloration and heavily stained teeth
Minor crookedness in teeth
Teeth with rough or uneven edges
Chipped or cracked enamel

Affordable Way to Get a Great Smile

A big reason why people delay getting any kind of dental treatment is cost. This is especially true for cosmetic dentistry procedures because they are often not covered by insurance. Luckily, dental bonding is fairly simple to carry out and does not cost as much as other treatments. You usually only need one appointment, and you can expect to be in the dentist’s chair for less than an hour.

If you are ready to show off a smile that looks phenomenal, then get dental bonding. Learn more about this cosmetic treatment by calling Gold Teeth Baton Rouge at 225-775-0160.

Consider Gold for Your Dental Crowns

Tue, 02 Aug 2016 00:00:00 GMT

There are a lot of choices when it comes to getting crowns put on your teeth. Although not widely used, there are benefits to gold crowns, and people do sometimes get them put on for good reasons. Here is some information about gold crowns.

Strength & Durability

One reason your dentist may recommend gold crowns is if you have a habit of biting strong foods, or if you clench or grind your teeth. This is because gold is more durable than the other crown materials and will not be affected as badly by grinding or chewing something hard. You don’t have to worry about what they look like in the case of the molars, which are in the back of the mouth and most commonly where crowns are found.

Versatility

There are three different forms of crowns that you can get depending on why you need them. Full crowns will cover up the entire tooth down to the gums, and this may be necessary if the tooth has been badly damaged and needs to be covered up to stay together. Gold inlays are castings used in place of large fillings, and onlays are like full crowns but have width reduction. These do not touch the gums.

If you want a crown that is going to withstand pressure from grinding, ask Gold Teeth Baton Rouge about gold crowns .