The practice of dentistry encompasses an amazing array of services and procedures, all with a common goal: to help you to preserve your natural teeth as long as possible, ensure your oral health, and keep you looking and feeling great throughout life.

There's so much that can be done these days to improve the appearance of a person's smile at any age. From powerful, professional whitening treatments to amazingly realistic porcelain veneers to state-of-the-art dental implants, there's a wide range of exciting possibilities.

The first step in any smile makeover is a thorough dental examination to make sure that your cosmetic problems really are just that, and not a sign of underlying dental disease. Once your health has been established, your smile can be cosmetically enhanced in a variety of ways.

Many people only go to the dentist when something is wrong. That is truly a shame, because they are missing out on so many preventive services that can save discomfort and expense down the road. Regular dental visits are essential to make sure oral health problems from tooth decay to oral cancer are detected and treated in a timely manner. Some individuals may need to see the dentist more often than others to stay on top of problems like plaque buildup and gum disease, but everyone should go at least once per year.

Your regular dental visits will include a thorough oral exam to check the health of your teeth and gums; and oral cancer screening to spot any suspicious signs early; and a professional cleaning to remove stubborn deposits and make your teeth look and feel great. So don't miss out on the many benefits dentistry offers you and your family!

It is extremely helpful for you to bring in pictures you have collected of smiles you like, smiles you don't like, and/or photos of the way your own smile used to look, if that's the result you're aiming for. Now is the time to get started on creating a smile that will make you feel as good as you look!

Tooth Decay A Preventable Disease Tooth decay is the number one reason children and adults lose teeth during their lifetime. Yet many people don't realize that it is a preventable infection. This article explores the causes of tooth decay, its prevention, and the relationship to bacteria, sugars, and acids... Read Article

Cosmetic Dentistry A Time For Change We are living in an exciting era in dentistry. Today more than ever before, the healing arts are able to provide cosmetic change to meet the public's ever-increasing expectations. Join Dear Doctor magazine as we review the myriad of possibilities available to you for cosmetic dental change... Read Article

Dentistry and Oral Health for Children Dear Doctor magazine brings you this wide-ranging overview of milestones and transitions in your child's dental development. Learn how to protect your children from tooth decay, dental injuries, and unhealthy habits while getting them started on the road to a lifetime of oral health and general well-being... Read Article

More than 4 million patients have straightened their teeth with Invisalign. This huge number proves that the process is successful and can treat many types of orthodontic problems. However, understanding the Invisalign process is a crucial part in understanding if Invisalign is right for you. Learn the answers to your questions and more with Dr. Ray.

How does Invisalign work? Similarly to traditional braces, Invisalign relies on pressure to move the teeth from one position to another. Invisaligns aligner trays take the place of traditional braces metal brackets and wires to place that pressure on the teeth. Small, tooth-colored bumps affixed to the teeth called attachments may help your orthodontist place more pointed pressure on some teeth to move them more or less than others.

Unlike traditional braces, Invisalign allows you to straighten your teeth subtly. Invisaligns clear plastic, custom-made aligner trays fit exactly onto your teeth, blending in with your natural look. The trays are also removable, eliminating the need to avoid certain foods or add timely steps to your oral care routine.

Can I use Invisalign if I have dental restorations? In some cases, a dental restoration may not be compatible with Invisalign. A permanent dental bridge, which bridges a missing tooths gap, may not allow your teeth to move properly since it attaches to two of your teeth. A dental crown, however, which only covers a single tooth, is usually no problem for Invisalign or traditional orthodontic treatments. Dr. Ray can help you determine if your teeth are a good fit for Invisalign treatment.

Do I have to wear a retainer after treatment? Retainers are a vital part of any orthodontic treatment, including Invisalign. Your retainer is usually your last or, in some cases, an extra aligner tray, worn around the clock for the first few months, then only at night. Wearing your retainer ensures that your teeth remain in their new positions and do not drift back to their old spots. Eventually, you will no longer be required to wear your retainer, but it is incredibly important directly after treatment.