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Cosmetic Dentistry

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A dental crown is a type of dental restoration that places a cap over a tooth or dental implant. Crowns help keep the underlying tooth from breaking apart, and can be used to help fix an area on a tooth that is broken. There are different types of crowns available to patients, and depending on the severity of the tooth will determine which type of crown is best. Crowns are typically made of hard materials such as porcelain or ceramic, but can also be made of gold, resin, or stainless steel. They can be made to match the color, size, and shape of your natural teeth and blend in nicely.

Pros of Dental Crowns

Dental crowns improve your appearance, and can help correct any cosmetic issues in the mouth. There are many benefits to dental crowns, and crowns are commonly used today.

  • Crowns are used to replace large or worn out fillings in the teeth
  • Restore dental implants
  • Restore cracked, injured, or damaged teeth
  • Correct discoloration or alignment
  • Reshape your teeth
  • Keep cracked or damaged teeth from breaking down further
  • Protect the underlying tooth after a root canal
  • Crowns are durable and last for years

Cons of Dental Crowns

With any dental procedure there are always some disadvantages patients should consider. In some cases, crowns may need to be repaired or replaced. This is not common but does happen occasionally. During a crown procedure the tooth has to be filed down to ensure the crown can be securely placed.If a crown is not fitted properly there is risk that it can fall out, or allow bacteria to enter underneath the crown. Patients may become more sensitive to hot or cold after their crown is placed. Our office typically recommends a sensitive toothpaste to help with this issue.

If patients ever have an issue with a crown we encourage them to contact our office right away. Leaving a damaged crown untreated can lead to further issues or complications. Overall, crowns are extremely helpful in preserving teeth, and give patients a beautiful natural white smile. The benefits of crowns definitely outweigh the risks.

Interested in Finding Out More?

If you are interested in finding out more about dental crowns, or if you have a damaged or discolored tooth, a dental crown may be the right solution. Our team is available to help you take the next step towards that perfect smile.

To schedule your consultation with our team contact our office, and our friendly staff will be happy to assist you!

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When deciding on a restorative solution it is important to look at all of your options to help you decide on the best option that works for you. A common question patients face is if they should choose a dental bridge or dental implants when they are looking for a tooth replacement solution. Both are restorative solutions for missing teeth, and it is helpful to understand the differences. At our practice, we provide our patients with a thorough consultation to examine their teeth and mouth, and discuss the differences between all of the restorative options available. Our staff works closely with our patients to help choose the best solution.

What Is a Dental Bridge?

A dental bridge is a fixed restoration that fills the gap created by one or more missing teeth. Bridges are anchored to one or more neighboring teeth also known as abutment teeth. Bridges can be supported by natural teeth or by dental implants. The false teeth are in-between and are called pontics.

How Do Dental Bridges Work?

During your first appointment we prepare the neighboring teeth. The preparation for a bridge involves removing part of the enamel to allow room for the crown. The crowns are placed over the neighboring teeth. Impressions of your teeth are taken to make the bridge in the lab, and temporary bridges are used while you wait for your permanent bridge.

Patients return to the office, and we remove the temporary bridge to prepare for the permanent bridge. The new bridge is installed, and we check to make sure the bridge is comfortable, and the perfect fit. Patients may have to return to our office again to ensure the bridge is working well with your bite. Once we know the bridge fits properly we will cement the bridge in place.

How Long Will Dental Bridges Last?

Dental bridges last around 10-15years. Bridges do involve using some of your natural teeth, and this can cause your bridge to fail over time. The teeth around the bridge are still vulnerable to decay and disease which can attribute to the life of the bridge. Patients must practice good oral hygiene habits at home to keep the bridge and surrounding teeth clean. We recommend brushing twice a day and flossing to ensure you carefully clean around both the false and natural teeth. Visiting our office regularly can help to keep your teeth clean, and your bridge looking and feeling great.

Benefits of Dental Bridges

  • Surgery is not required
  • Dental bridges tend to be less costly compared to implants
  • Jawbone density is not an issue with bridges
  • Overall the bridge procedure is less invasive compared to dental implants

Dental Implants

What Are Dental Implants?

Implants are a permanent solution for patients that have missing, broken, or damaged teeth. They are durable, and act similar to a screw that is placed into the jawbone. The screw acts like an artificial tooth root, and provides a strong base for one or more artificial teeth. Implants require a healing periodto give the implant time to fuse to the jawbone. This process allows the implant to function just like a natural tooth.

How Do Dental Implants Work?

Dental implants require multiple appointments in our office, and the process takes a few months. The first step involves placing the implant into the patient’s jawbone. Once this is done there is a healing period where we must give the implant time to fuse to the jawbone. This process is known asosseo integration.

Part of our implant evaluation process is to determine if the patient has adequate bone in the jaw to support the implants. If needed, bone grafting can be done to give patients the bone required to provide the necessary support. Once the healing process is complete the patient returns to our office, and anabutment or connector is placed on top of the implants. This allows the crown to be secured to the implant. Custom crowns are made to match the size, shape, and color of your natural teeth. Temporary crowns may be used while patients wait for the permanent crowns to be installed.

How Long Will Dental Implants Last?

Dental implants are durable and last upwards of 25 years, or a lifetime if they are cared for properly. Implants are built out of titanium, and provide patients with a permanent solution for missing teeth. Caring for dental implants is similar to caring for natural teeth, and we recommend practicing good oral hygiene habits at home to keep your implants looking and feeling great.

Benefits of Dental Implants

  • Dental implants are long lasting,and are a permanent restorative solution
  • Easy to carefor
  • Implants function like natural teeth
  • Chewing power is restored with dental implants
  • Speech and overall appearance are improved
  • Patients can eat all the foods they normally would with implants
  • Dental Implants tend to cost more, but are a good investment because they are built to last

Looking For a Dentist to Provide Dental Implants or Dental Bridges?

Choosing the best restorative option is a big decision, and our team is here to help. Our consultation process will answer all of your questions, and we will discuss what option may work best for you. We want our patients to be proud of their smile, and our team works to give patients the highest level of care. We welcome our patients in a comfortable and relaxing environment using state of the art technology. Creating beautiful smiles is what we do, and we take pride in giving patients a smile they can be proud of.

If you are interested in finding out more about your restorative options such as dental implants or dental bridges, contact our office today to schedule your consultation.

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If you have been recommended for dental implants, you may wonder if they will ever have to be replaced. Implants are a permanent restorative solution for patients seeking that perfect smile.Dentalimplants look and feel natural in the mouth, and last upwards of 25 years if they are cared for properly.

At our practice, dental implants are one of the most common restorative options performed. Manypatients are leaning towards this permanent option to give them a durable smile that will last for years.Dental implants can last your entire life, and they are one of the most reliable tooth restoration optionsavailable to patients.

How Successful Are Dental Implants?

Implants have a 95% success rate, and we encourage patients to use good oral hygiene habits to keep the implants clean and free of plaque. This helps the implants to last, and prevents infection which can make them unstable in the mouth. Implants moving or needing replacement is rare. If an implant shifts out of place this could indicate the bone tissue is not providing enough support, and you should contact our dental office immediately.

Tips to Ensure your Dental Implants Last a Lifetime

Here are some helpful tips that you can start using to get the most out of your dental implants:

  • Floss daily using an implant specific floss or wax free floss to help keep the area clean and freeof plaque. A Waterpik Water Flosser can be used to assist in removing plaque around theimplants.
  • Use a low abrasive tooth brush such as a soft type brush on your implants.
  • Avoid any products, foods, or drinks containing any ingredients that may stain your teeth.
  • Anti-microbial rinses can be used to help reduce inflammation and prevent infection.
  • Avoid products that contain stannous fluoride, sodium fluoride, or baking soda. These ingredients can make the implants prone to corrosion.

Interested in Dental Implants?

Caring for your implants at home is similar to caring for your natural teeth. Practicing good oral hygiene habits at home will ensure your implants last for years and never need to be replaced. Our friendly team is here to help you achieve the smile you have always wanted. We are always available to answer questions and help you every step of the way.

If you are interested in finding out more about dental implants and how they may benefit you, contact us to schedule your consultation as soon as possible.

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Professional whitening is effective at removing years of stains and discoloration from the teeth. Whether you’re looking to boost your confidence or are going to be attending a wedding, reunion or another big event, a bright and white smile is sure to improve your appearance. Expert whitening is performed in our office or provided to you using a professional-grade take-home kit. Whitening results can last for months to one or more years, and maintaining your results is key to ensuring that you’ll always have a gorgeous smile.

Why Should I Whiten My Teeth?

There are many factors that come into play when it comes to the whiteness and brightness of your smile. If you’re a smoker, drink a lot of coffee, tea or cola or you’re taking certain medications, you’ll notice that your teeth aren’t as white as they used to be. Likewise, just the act of aging can have a serious impact on the way that your smile looks. By professionally whitening your teeth, you can expect dramatic results that help to increase your self-esteem and confidence.

How Often Should Teeth Whitening Be Done?

It is best to avoid whitening your teeth too often. Over-whitening your teeth can lead to issues with hypersensitivity or even cause the teeth to look translucent. It is often recommended that you only whiten your teeth, whether at home or professionally, once a year. This prevents issues involving sensitivity and helps in creating a natural-looking smile. The benefit of utilizing professional whitening is that results typically last for about one year. This simply means that you won’t feel the need to touch-up or go with another whitening system because of how drastic the change is when using a professional whitening option.

How Can I Maintain My Results?

The best way to prevent the need for touch-ups is to avoid future staining and discoloration of the teeth. If you’re a smoker, now is the best time to quit and a great way to extend the length of your results. Try to avoid drinking too many dark liquids, like coffee and cola, and opt for water instead. You may want to consider using a whitening toothpaste so help clear away stains and discoloration before they are able to get worse. Be sure to speak with the experts about whitening and always discuss when the last time you whitened your teeth actually was before retreatment.


Our staff is available to answer any questions you may have, and we welcome all new patients to our dental clinic.

Ready to Schedule an Appointment?

If you are ready to schedule an appointment with us, please contact West Houston, and our friendly staff will be happy to assist you.

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Taking care of your oral and overall health must be a priority. Knowing when you need to call your dentist is important. Practicing good oral hygiene habits help to prevent tooth decay, cavities, and many other issues. Cavities are one of the most common issues patients face, and about 30 percent of Americans have untreated dental cavities. Leaving a cavity untreated can destroy your teeth leading to tooth loss, infection, and other more serious conditions.

It is helpful for patients to understand what a cavity is, and also know what symptoms to look out for if you think you may have a cavity.

What is a Cavity?

A cavity is when bacteria or food build up and form plaque on your teeth. The bacteria eat away at the enamel on your teeth and cause decay. Good oral hygiene habits are so important, and brushing and flossing can help you get rid of the plaque build up to prevent cavities from developing. Once the cavity is formed there is a small hole in your tooth, and if left untreated the cavity can destroy your tooth or develop an infection.

What Are the Signs of a Cavity?

There are signs you can look out for that may indicate you have a cavity. If you experience any of these signs we encourage you to contact our office, and our staff will get you in as soon as possible. Our team always works to keep our patient’s teeth and mouth healthy and pain free.

  • Sensitivity to hot and cold that lingers and does not go away
  • Sensitivity to sweet foods or drinks
  • A toothache that is on or around one or more teeth
  • Pain when you bite down or pain during eating
  • Discoloration, white spots, or staining on a tooth
  • A small hole or mark on your tooth

Ready to Schedule an Appointment?

If you are ready to schedule an appointment with us, please contact West Houston, and our friendly staff will be happy to assist you.

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Chipped or injured teeth are typically considered a dental emergency. We offer many cosmetic services, and have years of experience in cosmetic dentistry. If you have a chipped tooth, you may wonder how quick you can get the tooth fixed. Luckily, there are a few different treatment options to retore your tooth back to normal.

We encourage anyone who has chipped their tooth to contact our office right away. We offer a flexible schedule, and can get you in as soon as possible. In the meantime, we recommend patients can take over the counter pain medication to alleviate any pain. Eat soft foods, and avoid biting down on the damaged tooth.

How Can We Repair a Chipped Tooth?

Depending on the severity of the damage will determine what treatment option is best. If the chip is small a single visit to our office may only be needed. If the tooth is badly damaged, additional treatment and multiple visits to our office may be required.

Bonding or Filling

We can apply a tooth-colored composite resin to help repair your tooth. Bonding is a simple procedure and requires no local anesthesia. To prepare the tooth we file down the area and apply an adhesive. The resin is then applied on top to restore your tooth. Bonding is the color of your natural teeth, and can be formed to match the shape of your surrounding teeth. An ultraviolet light is used to cure or harden the bonding material.

Dental Veneers

Dental veneers can restore teeth that are chipped or broken. Veneers are a thin shell of composite material or porcelain that is placed over your tooth. They are customized to match the color and shape of your teeth, and look natural. The veneers are placed on your teeth using a cement material.

Dental Crown

If your tooth is severely damaged a dental crown may be necessary. We will prepare the tooth by filing away the area so the crown fits snug over your tooth. Crowns protect weak teeth from breaking down further, and look natural in the mouth. Crowns can be customized to match the size, shape, and color of your natural teeth. Typically, crowns are placed after a root canal. If your tooth is damaged down to the pulp area, and there is an infection, a root canal may be necessary to save your tooth.

Ready to Schedule an Appointment?

If you are ready to schedule an appointment with us, please contact West Houston, and our friendly staff will be happy to assist you.

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Cavities are always something we try to avoid with brushing and flossing each day. You may notice you get cavities frequently and others don’t. This doesn’t seem fair, but there are other factors that play into keeping your teeth free of decay that you may not realize. There are ways to reduce your risk for cavities outside of brushing and flossing regularly.

Why Are Some Prone to Cavities More Than Others?

Dental insurance can be confusing, and it is important to really understand what is covered, and what your expenses will be. Research what procedures are covered and what is not so you are prepared. Some plans have benefits that are limited, and they also have waiting periods before coverage can begin. Knowing how your insurance coverage works can help avoid headaches, and help you choose the best plan available.

Most insurance coverage is great for preventative care such as exams, cleanings and x-rays. Visiting the dentist is important, and choosing the coverage that is best for you can help you pay for those expensive procedures you may need in the future. Talk to your insurance provider to really help you understand the different plans, so you can choose the plan that best works for you.

Do You Have Questions for Our Team?

  • Diet – Reducing the amount of sugar you eat or drink can help prevent cavities. Your chance of getting cavities increases if you eat or drink foods with a high amount of sugar.
  • Gum Recession – If you suffer from gum disease and your gums are receding, the root of the tooth is exposed. Bacteria can reach the root area of the tooth and cavities can develop more easily.
  • Dry Mouth – If you tend to have a dry mouth your risk for decay increases. We need saliva to wash away bacteria in our mouths.
  • Genetics – Unfortunately some people are born with a tendency to develop cavities more frequently than others. This is because some people are more susceptible to a certain type of cavity causing bacteria.

How Can I Reduce My Risk for Cavities?

There are things you can do to help reduce your risk for cavities. This doesn’t mean you will never have a cavity again, but it does mean you are changing your habits, and putting forth a good effort to try and prevent decay from developing.

  • Regular Visits to Your Dentist – Make sure you attend your regular visits to your dentist. These exams help to identify potential cavities, and allow the dentist to get in front of issues before they become worse.
  • Reduce Sugars in Your Diet – Try and stay away from foods or drinks that are high in sugar.
  • Keep Up With Oral Hygiene – Stay on top of your oral hygiene with brushing and flossing at least twice a day. This will help prevent plaque buildup that causes decay.
  • Use a Toothpaste With Fluoride – Using a toothpaste that contains fluoride can help prevent tooth decay.
  • Use Mouthwash – Mouthwash can help rinse away bacteria, and if the wash contains fluoride this can help prevent cavities.

Knowing what you can do to help prevent cavities can help you avoid many trips to the dentist. Taking care of our teeth is very important, and can help avoid dental issues. Always practice good oral hygiene habits to keep your teeth and mouth feeling great.


At our office we discuss what patients are doing at home to help prevent decay. Our staff provides tips and tricks to help our patients keep their teeth looking great. Taking care of your teeth and gums is important, and can avoid serious issues from developing. If you have not been to our office for your regular dental exam, we encourage you to schedule your appointment.

Ready to Schedule an Appointment?

If you are ready to schedule an appointment with us, please contact West Houston, and our friendly staff will be happy to assist you.

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wisdom teeth recovery

Wisdom teeth are the back molars in our mouths and tend to erupt between the ages of 17 and 21. Most people do not have enough room in their jaw for wisdom teeth to properly erupt. Wisdom teeth can be impacted, or cause issues once they erupt such as overcrowding or infection.

 

If you require wisdom teeth surgery you may wonder how the recovery will be. Wisdom teeth removal is a common procedure and recovery tends to be pretty easy. The recovery period after wisdom teeth removal is around a week. This depends on the person, and in some cases, the recovery period may take longer if the wisdom teeth are impacted.

What Can I Expect During My Recovery?

Wisdom teeth surgery is done in one appointment, and anesthesia is typically used to help keep patients comfortable and relaxed. After your surgery, you will be brought into a recovery room where you will be monitored until it is safe to go home. We require all patients to bring a family member or friend to the surgery to help get them home safely.

 

A few hours after your surgery you will regain feeling in your mouth. Swelling and some bleeding are normal, and this should subside after a few days. A cold compress can be used on your mouth at home to help with any swelling or pain. Our team will discuss pain medications, and give you instructions you can take home.

 

We recommend all patients follow a soft food diet and avoid any alcohol or tobacco products. Patients should avoid using a straw as this can aggravate the surgery area and cause complications. On average patients begin to feel fully recovered around three to four days after their surgery. Patients should follow good oral hygiene habits to help keep the surgery area clean and avoid infection. If you notice any prolonged pain, swelling, or bleeding that does not subside, please call our office to be seen right away.

Looking for Wisdom Teeth Removal and Want To Learn More?

If you are interested in finding out more about wisdom teeth removal contact West Houston. Our doctors have years of experience in wisdom teeth removal and provide the highest level of care. If you are experiencing any pain, or think you may have an issue with your wisdom teeth, we recommend contacting us right away. Any issues with wisdom teeth should be addressed immediately to avoid complications. 

 

To find out more, or to schedule your wisdom teeth consultation, contact West Houston today!

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dental cleaning

Taking care of our teeth is important and can help avoid problems or unnecessary visits to the dentist’s office later in life. We recommend patients visit our office for their cleaning and exam at least twice a year. These appointments are crucial and can help maintain your oral health and detect issues before they become serious. Bacteria and plaque build-up over time and your toothbrush at home can only remove so much. Dental cleanings are easy and the typical dental cleaning and exam only take approximately 30-45 minutes. This depends on the condition of your teeth and if any problems are identified.

 

At West Houston prevention is extremely important. We help our patients review their oral hygiene routine at home and recommend changes to help keep their teeth and gums healthy. Many patients avoid visiting the dentist due to anxiety or fear. At West Houston we create a calm and relaxing experience and can help you get the dental care you need. Our doctors have years of experience and love to help patients achieve the perfect smile.

What Can I Expect During My Appointment?

When you visit our office, we create a calm and welcoming environment. Our treatment rooms are updated with the latest technology and equipment. During the visit, we thoroughly clean each patient’s teeth using special dental tools to remove any plaque or tarter. Our team will examine the condition of both your teeth and gums to ensure everything looks healthy. We take x-rays and create a customized treatment plan for each patient. Our team will perform an oral cancer screening by checking your mouth, throat, neck, and tongue for any areas of concern. Our doctor will meet with each patient to discuss any areas of concern and follow-up visits.

Why Are Dental Cleanings and Exams Important?

Getting comfortable visiting the dentist and attending your regular cleaning and exam appointments can help set the stage for the future. Dental exams allow our doctors to get in front of any issues early on, and this can help prevent serious issues from developing in the future. During your exam, we can detect broken fillings, cavities, or other oral concerns. Our team can remove plaque and tartar that brushing at home cannot reach. We recommend patients brush and floss daily at home to help keep their teeth and gums looking and feeling great. If you ever notice any pain or discomfort, we encourage you to contact our office right away, and we will ensure you are seen as soon as possible.

Are You Due for Your Regular Dental Cleaning and Exam?

If you are ready to schedule your dental cleaning and exam, we encourage you to contact us. Let our team help you care for your teeth and keep your smile looking its best. We provide exceptional service and quality dental care you can trust.

 

To schedule your appointment and join our dental family, contact West Houston, and our staff will be happy to assist you.

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dental bonding

If you have decided to restore your smile dental bonding is a great option. Bonding is not permanent, and can be reversed if necessary. Bonding is very durable, and if you have any wear or tear it can be repaired easily. This treatment can take care of cosmetic issues, is quick, and less expensive compared to other options. Dental bonding is great for repairing decayed, chipped, or fractured teeth. Bonding can even correct discolored teeth, and looks natural.


The composite material used can be shaped to match your natural teeth. Other benefits include changing the length of a tooth, or closing spaces between teeth. The procedure can typically be done in one day, and no anesthesia is needed. Dental bonding can last between 5-10 years before the composite material begins to wear down.

How Does the Dental Bonding Process Work?

Dental bonding does not require any removal of your tooth enamel. During the process your tooth is gently etched using a mild acid solution to help roughen the surface. This allows the composite material to bond to your tooth easily. The tooth-colored resin material is applied to the area, and is then cured with an ultraviolet light. Your tooth is shaped and polished to match your natural teeth. This process takes between 30-60 minutes.

Does Dental Bonding Last?

Dental bonding requires the patients to take care of the area that was bonded. The composite material used is very durable, but is never as strong as your natural teeth. With dental bonding there is risk of the bonding material separating from the tooth. Dental bonding can also chip or break. This is unlikely, but we do recommend patients do take care of the area that was bonded to avoid any complications. The good news is that dental bonding can be repaired. Dental bonding can last between 5-10 years or longer if taken care of properly.

Interested in Finding Out More About Dental Bonding?

If you are ready to find out more about how dental bonding may benefit you, contact West Houston. Our doctors have years of experience in cosmetic dentistry, and love to help patients achieve that smile they have always wanted.

 

To schedule your appointment with us, contact West Houston, and our friendly staff will be happy to assist you.

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ALICE LAM DDS
15300 Westheimer Rd, #101,
Houston, TX 77082, United States

(281) 531-5700

dreamteam@alicelamdds.com

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