You Be The Judge

Posted: October 13, 2017

If you are researching smile makeovers, you have probably heard claims that cosmetic dentistry can provide you with a ‘perfect smile’ or a ‘celebrity smile.’ Are these superlatives simply exaggerations? We invite you to judge for yourself.

Call 267-498-5297 to schedule a no-pressure smile makeover consultation with Dr. Lawrence Black of Black & Bass Cosmetic and Family Dentistry. You can discuss your smile makeover goals and see before and after photographs of actual patients.

A smile makeover involves multiple procedures which may include the following:

Tooth Implants

A dental implant is a metal (usually titanium) rod implanted into the bone to replace the missing root of a tooth that has been extracted. The crown and supporting structure are securely attached to the post.

Orthodontia

Orthodontic selections include traditional metal or ceramic braces, ‘behind-the-teeth’ (lingual) braces, and clear aligners.

White Fillings

If you had dental caries in the past, you may have old amalgam fillings. White fillings match your surrounding teeth, dramatically upgrading your smile without crowns.

Dental Crowns

There are many different kinds of crowns that serve different purposes. We carry out a thorough examination to ensure the crown you get is perfect for you and your smile.

Inlays/Onlays

Inlays/onlays are indirect fillings, which means that they are created in a lab and placed whole on the tooth. A traditional direct filling is applied to the tooth while the material is malleable and then shaped by the dentist. Where possible, an inlay or an onlay can be a less-invasive alternative to a complete crown.

Composite Veneers

Veneers can correct chips, cracks, minor tooth misalignment, tooth discoloration, unattractive tooth shape, and disproportionate tooth size.

Teeth Whitening

There is nothing like an exceptional white smile to give you complete confidence.

Dental Bonding

Dentists use bonding to fix tooth issues caused by decay, chips, or cracks. Large spaces between healthy teeth can be filled with bonding material, and bonding can safeguard tooth roots if the gums have regressed.

Enamel Shaping

Just one slightly misshapen tooth can downgrade the features of a smile even if all the other teeth have a winning appearance.

Gum Contouring

If you have a gumline that is too low or too high and detracts from the presentation, gum contouring can reshape the gumline and transform your smile.

‘Perfect smiles’ are possible—but don’t just take our word for it. Come see our smile gallery and judge for yourself.

Contact Black & Bass Cosmetic and Family Dentistry:

267-498-5297

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Posted in Cosmetic Dentistry

5 Reasons To Choose Cosmetic Dentistry

Posted: October 6, 2017

When was the last time you looked into the mirror? Were you totally satisfied by what you saw? If the answer is, “Not really,” then you may want to check out at these 5 great reasons to speak with your Doylestown dentist about cosmetic dentistry procedures.

1. The first reason is that a little cosmetic dentistry goes a long way. Some of the most popular cosmetic dentistry procedures, such as teeth whitening, are simple and easy to do, but they can have considerable results.

2. Next, you might be surprised at how reasonably priced it is! Next time you are in the office of your dentist, ask for a price chart. You may be pleasantly surprised.

3. Don’t worry about pain, your dentist will keep you comfortable. Many cosmetic dental patients expect the procedures to be painful, but dentists in the are trained to help you stay relaxed and free from discomfort. This is true whether you are getting dental implants, veneers, or a complete cosmetic dental smile makeover.

4. You’re never too old! Many mature men and women think that cosmetic dentistry procedures are only for the young, but teeth continue to change throughout your life and these procedures may be exactly what is needed. Plus, many satisfied patients say they look years younger after their procedures are complete.

5. Your cosmetic dentist can treat your particular cosmetic dental problem. Some folks have been led to believe that they have to live with chipped, cracked, or missing teeth, but today’s dentists have the tools and procedures to fix a wide array of dental issues.

If you are looking for a dentist, Black & Bass Cosmetic and Family Dentistry would love to serve you. Please call 267-498-5297 to make an appointment.

Contact Black & Bass Cosmetic and Family Dentistry: 267-498-5297

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Posted in Cosmetic Dentistry

Captivate Audiences In Pennsylvania Once Again

Posted: September 22, 2017

Remember when being a toothless five-year-old captivated friends and family? When a lisp was considered precious and endearing? For adults, toothless smiles are embarrassing and lisps can make you self-conscious.

Your days of capturing delighted looks and commanding a conversation may not be gone forever–even if you have missing teeth. Don’t keep your fans waiting any longer. It is time to find out what can be done to fill in those gaps. Calling our Lansdale office at 267-498-5297 is the first step out of the wings and onto the stage of a new life.

If you are missing teeth, have unbecoming gaps or are just not satisfied with your smile’s current state, the talented group at Black & Bass Cosmetic and Family Dentistry looks forward to offering you the answers to all your vital smile makeover, dental restoration, and cosmetic dentistry questions. The cost of painless injections and cosmetic and restorative dentistry isn’t always easy to figure out. A simple consultation will bring not only clarity but hope that possibilities for cosmetic dentistry, restorative dentistry, or dental implants are well within your reach. Drs. Kevin Bass and Lawrence Black are ready to end your stage fright and restore confidence at this stage in your life. We know we can’t stay children forever, but don’t despair. YOU can still be captivating!

Contact Black & Bass Cosmetic and Family Dentistry: 267-498-5297

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Posted in Cosmetic Dentistry

A Teenage Smile Without The Metal

Posted: September 15, 2017

Many adults want to look younger by straightening their teeth. A mouthful of conspicuous teenager-style metal braces is not exactly what they had in mind.

If you are unhappy with your misaligned teeth, you may be interested to hear about the new, discrete straightening methods now available for people of all ages: custom invisible braces

Your busy lifestyle will not be hampered because invisible braces are so simple and convenient. The comfortable aligners allow you to eat anything you want and caring for your teeth will not become cumbersome. When you smile, nobody will know that your teeth are gently being aligned.

You may not be a candidate for invisible braces, but don’t worry. Black & Bass Cosmetic and Family Dentistry offers additional options. Manufactured under the brand names Damon Braces and Damon Clear, the tieless braces system features a sliding mechanism instead of bands or clips. If your dentist or orthodontist doesn’t believe you are a good candidate for invisible aligners, you can still be discrete with this type of system.

The professionals who practice modern orthodontia and cosmetic dentistry truly work miracles to create younger, more vibrant smiles. If you have delayed orthodontic treatment because of the perceived inconvenience and obtrusiveness of traditional metal braces, we hope today’s post has provided important details that will help you make an informed determination.

At Black & Bass Cosmetic and Family Dentistry, our calm and comfortable team has been providing and dazzling smiles since 1989. If your teeth have troubles in addition to misalignment, schedule a consultation to learn about veneers, dental implants, white fillings, gum contouring, and teeth whitening.

Some of the most popular treatments include cosmetic dentistry, restorative dentistry, and dental implants. Whatever your dental needs are, we will create a personalized, custom treatment plan for you.

Contact Black & Bass Cosmetic and Family Dentistry: 267-498-5297

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Posted in Cosmetic Dentistry

Your Unique Smile – Only Better!

Posted: September 8, 2017

Hello, Lansdale! If you are unhappy with your smile, it’s time to change that.

We’re Drs. Kevin Bass and Lawrence Black. We’ve been practicing general and cosmetic dentistry in Lansdale, Pennsylvania since 1989. During our careers, we have established a reputation for excellence while providing care for many fantastic Doylestown, Quakertown, and Harleysville residents. Performing extreme smile makeovers makes my profession extremely fulfilling.

When I design a smile, I carefully analyze the macroesthetics (larger facial characteristics and relationships between bone structure, tooth size, and shape), and microesthetics (more delicate features such as tooth shade and degree of translucency). There is no one-size-fits-all treatment, each Black & Bass Cosmetic and Family Dentistry smile design is as unique as you are.

A smile makeover in Lansdale at Black & Bass Cosmetic and Family Dentistry typically involves two or more procedures, which may include: porcelain veneers, tooth implants, crown lengthening, dental bonding, and teeth bleaching. Of course, just one procedure such as tooth-colored fillings can make a world of difference.

Call Black & Bass Cosmetic and Family Dentistry at 267-498-5297 today to schedule a smile design consultation.

Contact Black & Bass Cosmetic and Family Dentistry: 267-498-5297

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Posted in Cosmetic Dentistry

Correcting Severe Dental Problems At Black & Bass Cosmetic and Family Dentistry

Posted: September 1, 2017

Each separate restorative and cosmetic dentistry procedure performed in Doylestown can address a specific dental problem. For example, a porcelain veneer can correct the surface of a tooth that is discolored or slightly misshapen. Dental bonding can fill a small chip in an otherwise healthy tooth.

Some dental problems are more extensive and require a combination of procedures. Crown restoration combined with soft tissue grafts can restore a severely decayed tooth with the root exposed. A bone graft and dental implant can restore a missing tooth in an area where the jaw bone has receded. Orthodontia followed by tooth bleaching totally transforms a smile by straightening and whitening.

What is the difference between tooth bleaching and whitening? Whitening is the term for procedures which remove surface stains to restore the degree of natural lightness. Bleaching goes even further by lightening teeth beyond their natural shade. That’s right: you don’t have to resign yourself to yellow teeth even if they have been that way your whole life! The natural shade of your teeth, by the way, like your skin and hair color, is determined by genetics.

Some smiles have been gleaming for years by regular whitening. You can maintain the whiteness of your teeth just as you maintain your fitness level. (Of course it is a lot easier to make a quick visit to your dentist once a year for whitening touch-ups than sweating in a gym several times a week!)

We live in an age where severe dental problems can be permanently corrected. You don’t have to participate in a TV makeover show in Hollywood to access these premium cosmetic dental procedures.Drs. Kevin Bass and Lawrence Black have the same advanced training and extensive experience as the dentists who keep the smiles of famous actors and musicians camera-ready.

Schedule a consultation at Black & Bass Cosmetic and Family Dentistry to discover the perfect combination of procedures to achieve your ultimate smile. Our phone number is 267-498-5297.

“We cater to cowards.”

Contact Black & Bass Cosmetic and Family Dentistry: 267-498-5297

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Posted in Cosmetic Dentistry

Does Your Teen Have Unique Dental Challenges?

Posted: August 25, 2017

When it comes to oral health, adolescence is a pivotal time for Lansdale youth. The last of the permanent teeth come in, providing young men and women with their “adult smile.” Good habits can be forged and reinforced. Teeth can be straightened with orthodontia, providing increased confidence when it is often sorely needed.

Not all teenagers take care of their teeth, however. Some youth practice habits that are dangerous to their teeth. Adolescents often don’t understand the importance of proper dental hygiene and how it impacts lifelong oral health. Teenage tooth decay can cause recurring dental issues in later years.

Eating disorders are far too common among area youth. Bulimia can cause enamel erosion, decay, and even complete tooth loss. We strongly recommend parents to intervene immediately and seek appropriate medical care if they suspect their teen has an eating disorder.

The importance of diet cannot be overstated. Adolescence is a time when many young adults decrease their calcium intake – a danger to both bones and teeth. The consumption of energy drinks and sugared soda also contribute to tooth and gum problems in teenagers.

In addition, teenagers who use tobacco and illegal drugs have an increased risk of cavities and oral cancer. Oral piercings can be extremely dangerous. The health risks include tooth and gum damage, infection, allergic reactions, nerve damage, and excessive swelling that can block airways.

Teens who are undergoing orthodontic treatment often have a difficult time properly cleaning their teeth. It is a challenge to fit toothbrush bristles and floss under dental hardware. Toothbrushes and flossing devices that squirt water can help adolescents with braces adequately clean their teeth and gums.

Black & Bass Cosmetic and Family Dentistry advises parents to make sure their adolescents receive twice-yearly dental exams and cleanings. Drs. Kevin Bass and Lawrence Black can identify and treat oral issues in their early stages so that further damage can be prevented or minimized.

The American Academy of Pediatrics offers the following essential guidelines for adolescent oral health:

Teens should drink fluoridated water.
Fluoride supplementation is recommended for high risk teens that don’t have access to fluoridated water (up to age 16).
Teens should use fluoridated toothpaste twice a day.
Teens should floss daily.¹

To schedule an intensive teen dental examination and cleaning, call Black & Bass Cosmetic and Family Dentistry at 267-498-5297. Our team of calm and comfortable dental professionals is passionate about oral health for patients of all ages.

¹“Protecting All Children’s Teeth, Oral Health in Adolescence,” http://www2.aap.org/oralhealth/pact/, accessed September 17, 2014

Contact Black & Bass Cosmetic and Family Dentistry: 267-498-5297

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Posted in Family Dentistry

Missing Teeth? Dentures And Implants Restore Smiles

Posted: August 18, 2017

If you have had years of dental problems or are embarrassed by your teeth, our team at Black & Bass Cosmetic and Family Dentistry can help you find the restoration procedure right for you. You could be a candidate for complete or partial dentures or dental implants.

A removable replacement for missing teeth, dentures can be made in advance and positioned as soon as the natural teeth are removed. Our dental lab creates dentures that look just like natural teeth: attractive and healthy.

Partial dentures fill in the gaps, replacing missing teeth to complete a smile. Partial dentures can prevent natural teeth from moving. Some of these procedures can be completed in one day.

Many dental insurance providers cover most or all of the cost of dentures. We can help you find out if your Pennsylvania dental insurance covers dentures.

Another alternative for those with missing teeth is to receive dental implants. A dental implant is a permanent tooth restoration that is anchored into the jawbone, actually replacing both the root and crown of the tooth. Dental implants have many advantages, such as preventing jaw bone recession which can occur when natural teeth are removed. However, not all patients are good candidates for implants.

Dental implants can also be used to anchor a removable denture. The denture is ‘snapped on’ or attached to the implants for no-slip confidence. The combination denture/implant smile restoration solution is effective and usually more affordable than dental implant replacements for several natural teeth.

Replacing missing teeth will benefit your appearance and your health, improving your ability to eat and speak. If you are embarrassed to smile or laugh, it’s time to bring back your beautiful smile!

To learn more about dental implants and financing options, call us at 267-498-5297 to schedule a consultation.

At Black & Bass Cosmetic and Family Dentistry, we provide advanced general and cosmetic dentistry. Ask us about ourcosmetic dentistry, restorative dentistry, dental implants, and family dentistry services.

Contact Black & Bass Cosmetic and Family Dentistry: 267-498-5297

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Posted in Dental Implants

Smart Brushing Trumps Aggressive Brushing

Posted: August 11, 2017

Most Lansdale residents brush their teeth (at least we hope so). However, there are many who brush improperly but don’t realize that their dental hygiene practices may be contributing to oral problems. They may pride themselves on their diligence, but frequency does not make up for incorrect methods. One of the most common errors – especially for young Doylestown dental patients – is rapid, aggressive teeth cleaning with a hard bristle toothbrush.

There is a certain logic to this method; when you want to clean smooth surfaces like bathroom tiles, you scrub with a hard brush, right? The problem is that teeth and gums have special characteristics that require finesse. While enamel is durable, the soft tissues in the mouth are not designed for intense scouring.

If you use hard bristles against possible cavity makers, froth at the mouth, speed through those 30 inches of tooth surface, and spit everything out in less than a minute, this post is for you.

Effects of Quick, Hard Brushing:

Decay from overlooked food particles
Damage to teeth through abrasion
Weakened enamel
Tooth sensitivity
Gum recession
Damage to existing dental work
Tartar build-up

The friendly dental hygienists at Black & Bass Cosmetic and Family Dentistry in Lansdale teach patients the proper way to brush teeth. With a slow, deliberate two minutes twice daily, you can take control of your dental hygiene, improve your oral health, and lessen the risk of future problems.

Smart Brushing Trumps Aggressive Brushing:
Plaque is soft enough to scratch off with a fingernail, so brush accordingly with soft bristles
Angling the toothbrush requires little effort with consistently cleaner results
Proper tooth brushing can prolong that remarkable professional-cleaning feel
Flossing is easier without sore, bleeding gums

If you have already damaged your teeth or gums through aggressive or haphazard brushing, it’s vital to fix those problems and get back on track. Call 267-498-5297 to schedule an appointment with Dr. Kevin Bass and Lawrence Black of Black & Bass Cosmetic and Family Dentistry. At Black & Bass Cosmetic and Family Dentistry, we provide individualized treatment for every patient’s dental issues and goals.

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Posted in General Dentistry

Questions To Ask Your Lansdale Dentist

Posted: August 4, 2017

Sometimes Lansdale residents research their mechanic or hairdresser more thoroughly than their dental professional. Shouldn’t your dental care be far more essential than the condition of your car or the style of your hair? At Black & Bass Cosmetic and Family Dentistry, we love to answer questions about all facets of dentistry.

For instance, you may have questions about a dentist’s training and experience. Dr. Lawrence Black has been performing complex dental procedures since 1989. If you have questions about the dental school Dr. Lawrence Black attended, be sure to ask about it during your consultation.

You probably have questions about the types of services your dentist offers. These may include crowns, braces, fillings, dental bridges, root canals, dental bonding, white fillings, and gum contouring. These services may not be vital to you now, but it is a good idea to have an understanding of your options.

If you are contemplating smile restoration, tooth implants, or tooth whitening, discuss cosmetic dentistry services with your dentist. Look at before and after pictures and ask your dentist which procedures may be right for you.

At Black & Bass Cosmetic and Family Dentistry, we offer the full menu of general and dental services including painless injections, cosmetic and restorative dentistry and dental implants. In addition, our dental hygienists perform the most thorough deep dental cleanings of any practice in Pennsylvania. If you haven’t run your tongue along smooth, tartar-free teeth in a while, come in for a dental cleaning. It’s a wonderful feeling!

We welcome questions about all aspects of Black & Bass Cosmetic and Family Dentistry. Call us today at 267-498-5297 to have your questions answered.

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Posted in Cosmetic Dentistry