A single porcelain veneer being placed on a tooth

Bleeding Gums with Porcelain Veneers

I’ve been excited about my porcelain veneers. They’re much more elegant looking than my natural teeth. My husband says it’s given me confidence. I’m a little worried though. Recently, when I brush there’s been some red on my toothbrush. I went in for my first checkup since getting the veneers and they said I’ve developed gum disease and have to do much better brushing and flossing. I’ve always had good […]

My Teeth are Whiter Than My Porcelain Veneers

I’ve always done my best with my smile. When I didn’t have any money, I was diligent to brush and floss regularly and never drank coffee and other drinks which could stain my teeth. Once, my finances were a little better I started whitening my teeth about every two years. Now, I can finally do a full smile makeover. I’m was so excited about this…until they came in. The porcelain […]

What Are Implant Dentures?

I have heard of dental implants and I’ve heard of dentures, but what are implant dentures? I’m losing quite a bit of teeth because of a car accident. I don’t think I can afford dental implants but I’m too young for dentures (26). So is this a midway thing? Lara K. Dear Lara, I’m very sorry about your accident and that you’ve been put in the position of replacing your […]

Traveling for Better Dental Implants

I have a question about traveling for dental implants. I’m not referring to tourism dentistry, which I know is dangerous, but rather within the United States. There aren’t any great options for dentists who do dental implants in my area. Most of them don’t have a very high success rate. I’ve done some research and there’s a dentist in my sister’s area who’s an extraordinary dentist, both in cosmetics and […]

A woman in a dental chair giving a thumbs up.

How Do You Nominate a Dentist for Best Dentist

I’ve been in some dental offices where they proudly displaced their “Best Dentist” award from the community. Rarely, did I think they actually deserved it. I’ve never been to a dentist I was impressed with…until this week. I went to a new dentist and the entire office was fantastic. They were friendly and helpful. The doc took lots of time to ask me about things in my medical history and […]

Woman with a beautiful smile created by cosmetic dentist Dr. David Newkirk

Confusion Regarding Lumineers

Can you help me understand why some cosmetic dentists swear by Lumineers and others think they’re the worst? Terri B. Dear Terri, There is a wide variation of abilities among cosmetic dentists. Some are just after functionality, while others want their work to be aesthetically beautiful as well. When it comes to things like getting a smile makeover, you definitely want to end up with the latter dentist. The “controversy” […]

I Want My Silver Fillings OUT!

I’ve had silver fillings for years. Yes, they’ve served me well. But, at the time I got them it was our only option. These days, my grandchildren and great-grandchildren are all getting white fillings. I want those. My silver fillings have always conducted heat, which with my mouthful of metal can be uncomfortable. My dentist, who is close to my age, said he’s not that interested in removing something that’s […]

Should I Trust My Dentist if He’s Not Listed as a Lumineers Expert?

I want to get a Lumineers smile. My dentist can provide one for about $10,000. The price isn’t bad, but I noticed he isn’t listed as a Lumineers expert. Should I be concerned and try another dentist? Marcy Dear Marcy, One thing I can say about Lumineers is that they have a fantastic marketing campaign. I’d like you to be very careful here. Most expert dentist’s don’t recommend the brand. […]

A Smile Makeover Done by Dr. Newkirk with Porcelain Veneers

Are Porcelain Veneers and Press-on Veneers Comparable?

I have stained teeth and the two front teeth have a small gap. I’ve been thinking about porcelain veneers, but I’m still paying off student loans so I’m not sure if more debt is what I need. However, at this point in the game, I worry that the condition of my teeth keeps me from advancing at work. It may just be my sensitivity about my teeth, but I feel […]

Teeth Whitening Store Has Me in Agony.

I’m in complete agony and am too embarrassed to call my dentist. I’ve wanted to whiten my teeth for a while, but am a broke college student. So, as you can imagine, what my dentist quoted wasn’t feasible for me. I was at the mall and saw a teeth whitening store. I was curious if they’re the same price so I wandered in. The girl seemed super helpful and knowledgeable. […]