Dr. G. holds a BS in Chemistry from St. John's University and received a degree as a Doctor of Dental Surgery from Fairleigh Dickinson University. He has been practicing dentistry since 1970. He is a member of the Massachusetts Dental Society, the American Dental Association, and the Metropolitan District Dental Society.
Dr. Joe holds degrees from the University of Pennsylvania (B.A.) and Tufts University School of Dental Medicine (D.M.D.). He has been practicing dentistry since 1999. He is a member of the American Dental Association, the Massachusetts Dental Society, and the New England Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry. He is a scholar at the Dawson Center for Continuing Dental Education.
Dr. Sarah Shih is a board certified periodontist who has been practicing since 1987. She is a clinical instructor at Harvard Dental School of Dental Medicine and holds degrees from University of California, San Francisco (DDS), Baylor (MS) and Harvard (DMSc). Dr. Shih is a member of the American Dental Association, American Academy of Periodontology, International Congress of Oral Implantologists and International Bone and Mineral Society. She has published several research articles and texts. She has lectured both locally and internationally. Dr Shih is also an editorial reviewer for the Journal of Periodontology.
Dentures, bridges, and partial dentures are no longer the only way to restore a mouth that has few restorable teeth or no teeth at all. Dental implants are tooth root substitutes that are surgically placed in the jaw bone and act as anchors to stabilize artificial teeth. These strategically placed supports can be used to support a single tooth, a bridge, and even a denture. While the initial investment tends to be greater, the implant supported teeth and dentures will more closely resemble the 'feel' of real teeth. The benefit of using implants is that they don 't rely on neighboring teeth for support. They are permanent and stable. Dental implants are becoming the alternative of choice but not everyone is a candidate for implants.
If you are considering implants, a thorough evaluation will help determine if you are a good candidate. Our periodontist, Dr. Shih works together with us to provide a smooth transition from start to finish on your implant treatment.
Your initial visit with us includes a cleaning, a clinical examination, a periodontal tooth charting, and x-rays which together provide information about the patient's smile and help us to formulate a diagnosis and treatment plan.
WHITENING Teeth whitening is a safe and effective way to brighten stained, discolored, or dull teeth. Our GLO system may be all that is needed to reverse the effects of time in under an hour. Another option is our home whitening system to create results in 2 weeks. Tooth whitening is most effective if your teeth are darkened from age, coffee & tea, or smoking. Teeth discolored in yellow, brown or orange shades respond better to whitening treatment. Unfortunately, while gray stains caused by fluorosis or tetracycline can be lightened, the results can be less than satisfactory.
CROWNS AND VENEERS Crowns - Crowns also known as 'caps' are typically used to restore a tooth 's function and appearance when decay has infected large portions of the tooth. Crowns are also used to anchor bridges, cover implants, and support cracked teeth. A crown can serve an esthetic purpose and is applied to a discolored or stained tooth to help restore its natural appearance. Crowns can be made in all porcelain or porcelain fused to a metal substructure.
Proper homecare and regular dental cleanings are essential to prolong the life of a crown. It is very important to floss in the area of the crown to avoid bacterial buildup around the restoration. Certain behaviors such as jaw clenching or bruxism (teeth grinding), may significantly shorten the life of a crown. Eating brittle foods, ice, or hard candy can compromise the adhesion of the crown and also damage it.
Veneers - Special thin porcelain laminates, called veneers, can often be used to correct discolored, worn, cracked, and chipped teeth. A veneer can reverse years of staining caused by foods, drinks, and tobacco use. They can also be used to close gaps between teeth. Veneers are not recommended for those who clench or grind their teeth.
While an attractive smile can significantly improve your image and self-confidence, it involves much more than your teeth. A great looking smile includes the entire face. You can radiate beauty from the inside out by receiving Botox and dermal filler treatments at our office.Our doctorshave been specially trained in total facial estheticsto bring out your full beauty potential.
While mouth guards are recommended as a protective measure for both serious athletes and casual sports participants, they are also recommended for patients who suffer from pain associated with tooth grinding. We custom make mouth guards in both soft and hard materials.