First, let’s talk about what CEREC is, when it is used and what an onlay is.  An inlay is used to treat teeth that have decay or damage to their lining in their top surfaces. Inlays can also replace old or damaged metal fillings. CEREC allows Dr. McDowell to complete a dental restoration using a variety of computer-aided technologies in one easy visit. Technology isn’t new to the dental office, but creating an inlay that looks like the natural tooth is quite a step forward.

How CEREC works… a 3-D digital camera creates an optical impression of the tooth. The signals from the image are sent to a milling machine, which creates the filling shape into a porcelain block. After polishing, the piece is fitted in place using a light cured bonding material. A final polish and you are on your way out the door.

Dr. McDowell can advise if you are a candidate for a CEREC inlay. Wayzata Dental & SmileSpa is conveniently located if you are in Shorewood, Excelsior, Tonka Bay, or Navarre area.

Let’s face it… we all enjoy a snack  – that pick-me-up treat between breakfast and lunch to keep you going or in the afternoon when the 3:00 p.m. blahs hit. Then there are the kids coming home from school hungry. It is easy to grab chips or cookies, but they aren’t the best foods for your body or your teeth. What you eat affects more than just your heart. Consider the health of your teeth too when picking a snack.

Some good choices:

• Fresh veggies top the list – carrots, celery, cucumber, and peppers.
• Fruits are also an excellent choice – oranges, berries, pears, 100% juice or canned fruits in their own juices.
• Choose whole grain breads, crackers, or bagels and add some healthy protein, such as chicken or turkey.
• If you want chips, try pretzels or nuts for that crunch.
• Low fat milk, yogurt, cheeses and cottage cheese are also great fill-me-up foods.
• If you are going to drink sugary sodas, juices, or waters, use a straw. It helps to reduce the sugars that sit on your teeth.
• Try to brush after snacks to give you dental health an extra boost.

Wayzata Dental & SmileSpa can answer questions about how nutrition affects your teeth. Call us at 952-473-4900 or send us a note on the Request Appointment page. We are conveniently located if you are in the Shorewood, Orono, Navarre or Excelsior area.

We are excited to offer our patients 4 FREE syringes of whitening gel with the purchase of trays! You may also buy the whitening gel at 1/2 off, normally priced at $61!