Terri Alani DDS Blog

If you’ve grown tired of seeing stains, chips, cracks, gaps, and other imperfections in your smile, you may be wondering if there’s any solution out there that can help you. Cosmetic dentistry has only become more advanced over the years, so it’s not only easier than ever to get the smile you want, but more accessible as well. If you’re unfamiliar with the veneer process in Uptown Houston, keep reading so you can know exactly what to expect before you schedule an appointment.

In recent years, you may have noticed DIY smile realignment services on television, online, or even in-person. These products promise the same level of personalization and effectiveness as traditional clear aligners, such as Invisalign in Uptown Houston, but without having to visit a dental professional. However, there are some facts about these products you should keep in mind. Read on to learn why Invisalign remains the best option for your smile needs.

Approximately 800,000 Americans will end up in the emergency room for a dental emergency and unfortunately that number only continues to rise. But did you know that in most cases, an emergency room is actually not the ideal place to be when you have a bad toothache, cracked restoration, or other urgent dental issue? If you’re experiencing a dental emergency in Uptown Houston, you’ll want to get in touch with a dentist first (at least most of the time). Learn why from a professional who’s treated dental emergencies for years.

People often make resolutions in the new year, yet fail to meet them. In certain cases, it’s because the resolution was too vague, making it more difficult to know whether it was actually met. Alternatively, setting a resolution that’s far too ambitious can truly set you up for failure. If you’re looking for a resolution that’s relatively simple to complete and extremely beneficial to your oral and overall health, consider making the commitment to see a dentist twice a year for a dental checkup! Keep reading to learn the benefits of doing so from a dentist directly.

While it’s possible for your diet to negatively impact your smile any time of the year, the holidays are particularly bad for a variety of reasons. Not only are harmful foods more available to you (both at home and at work), but your oral care routine can take a hit, especially if you plan to travel. Learn about the most common factors that affect your oral health during the holidays and what you can do to prepare in advance.

Let’s face it: you’re far more likely to eat foods during the holiday season that, unfortunately, put your oral health at risk. While most people enjoy biting into a shortbread cookie and chewing on a candy cane, these holiday foods can dramatically increase your risk for cavities and gum disease ahead of the new year. With that in mind, here are 5 tips to protect your smile as you enter the holiday season according to a dentist!

While you may have a health insurance plan, you may be wondering if it’s worth it to have a dental insurance plan as well. While some people may say getting a dental plan isn’t, others note that you can’t beat having peace of mind when it comes to your oral health (and by proxy your overall health). If you answer “yes” to any of the following questions, there’s a good chance a dental insurance plan is right for you.

Has your smile always looked more “gummy” than you’d prefer? While a gummy smile is not a cause for concern most of the time, it can make you feel self-conscious about your smile’s appearance. For example, teeth can appear stubby or short, which is not ideal for some. The good news is, thanks to modern advancements in dental technology, you don’t have to settle for this appearance if you don’t want to. Find out what the most common causes of a gummy smile are and how diode laser dentistry can help!

When it comes to your smile, it’s important to take the time to recognize which cosmetic treatment will best suit your needs. Of course, you shouldn’t have to figure this out entirely on your own. Cosmetic dentists are more than happy to help break down the treatments they offer so you can make an informed decision. In the meantime, consider learning about the difference between veneers and bonding ahead of your next cosmetic consultation!

The gums hold far more responsibility than you might initially give them credit for. For example, they play a major role in protecting the more vulnerable areas of your teeth that are not strong enough to withstand acids created by plaque and bacteria like enamel can. If you’ve noticed that your teeth are more visible or appear longer than usual, it’s a sign that something is wrong. This phenomenon, known as gum recession, is a warning sign of a more serious problem called periodontal disease. To learn the causes of gum recession, how to address it, and what to do when it’s become too far gone, keep reading!