Services
Cosmetic dentistry does more than create beautiful smiles and straight white teeth. Cosmetic dentistry uses the most up to date dental materials and methods to not only recreate the properties of your natural teeth, but also to minimize damage to tooth structure. By using these new materials that have similar optical characteristics and physical properties of your natural teeth, they will look and feel like real teeth, even in the back of your mouth. These materials are “bonded” to your teeth, not just cemented, with the best bonding agents available. Once this is done, they can assume the same functions as your natural teeth.
Neuromuscular & Orthopedic Dentistry (TMJ Treatment)
TMJ disorders are a group of conditions that affect the jaw joint and the muscles described above. Statistics show that about twice as many women as men are affected by TMJ problems. TMJ, which stands for Temporomandibular Joint, is the joint which connects the lower jaw (mandible) to the temporal bone at the side of the head. Because the joints (one on each side) are flexible, the jaw can move smoothly up and down, and side to side, which enables us to talk, chew and yawn. Muscles attached to and surrounding the jaw joint control its position and movement.
TMJ signs and symptoms
In some cases, headaches, ear aches, dizziness and hearing problems are related to TMJ disorders. Signs that you may be experiencing TMJ problems which should be evaluated by a dentist or primary care physician include:
- Persistent pain, especially in the chewing muscles and/or jaw joint.
- Limited movement or locking of the jaw.
- Radiating pain in the face, neck or shoulders.
- Painful clicking, popping or grating sounds in the jaw joint when opening or closing.
- Sudden, major change in the way the upper and lower teeth fit together.
What causes these disorders?
There are various causes, including severe injury to the jaw or temporomandibular joint, arthritis and whiplash. Some experts suggest that stress (emotional or physical) may cause or aggravate TMJ problems.
In addition, people with TMJ disorders may clench or grind their teeth at night which can tire the jaw muscles and lead to pain (not to mention grind down their teeth). A custom mouth guard can be made for you by your dentist to minimize the effects of nighttime teeth grinding.
As with all medical and dental conditions, knowledge is the key to identifying and determining proper treatment. See your dentist if you experience any of the above symptoms.
ZOOM! Teeth Whitening
Yellowed, stained teeth are not only embarrassing, they can dramatically age your appearance. But you can have a bright, white youthful smile again. With ZOOM! Smile Whitening. The ZOOM! Smile Whitening treatment can comfortably, effectively and safely brighten your smile up to 8 shades brighter in about one hour. Through advanced, proprietary technology, ZOOM! Smile Whitening uses the combination of a gentle whitening gel activated by a specially designed light. The results are dramatic and enduring.
Dr. George Duncan, Dr. Nizar Merheb, Dr. Timothy Ruffner, Dr. Erin Shanahan, Dr. Barry Simms and Dr. Rodney Willey - Providing services in cosmetic dentistry to the area of North Peoria, East Peoria and Dunlap, Illinois (IL).
