Located in the Heart of Armonk Village, Right in front of Town Hall
Dental Implant Procedure
Dental Implant Procedure
A dental implant is a permanent procedure that involves replacing a tooth or multiple missing teeth.It so closely replicatesthe original look and function of a natural tooth and tooth root, making the dental implant procedure one of the most successful tooth replacement procedures available today. During a dental implant procedure, an attachment is made to the jawbone, and because its durability a dental implant can last a lifetime with proper care.
A dental implant procedure can take as little as a few weeks or up to nine months. This depends on the condition of your gums, jaws and teeth. The expertise of an experienced dentist along with a reliable and trustworthy oral surgeon and reconstructive dentist will ensure that your dental implants are secure and ready to last you a life time.
Step by Step Procedure for a Dental Implant
Stage 1 – A Thorough Assessment of your Teeth
The oral and maxillofacial surgeon will conduct a thorough assessment of the teeth, and will take note of the missing tooth or teeth. They will then list out all the available options with you and will also make a recommendation of the best one. If needed, theywill take x-rays and will check you overall health, dental health, bone structure and gum tissues to assess if your mouth can support dental implants. If everything looks all right, impressions of your mouth will be taken to determine the exact location for the dental implant to be positioned. Theywill also give you an estimated cost for the procedure and will be open to any questions that you may have.
Stage 2 – Inserting the Implant into the Jawbone
For a dental implant procedure very accurate and precise state of the art technology is used. An anesthesia will be administered to you to ensure that you do not feel any discomfort or pain. You can choose whether you would like a local or a total anesthesia. The dentist will then very carefully position the dental implant at the position where the tooth root is missing; this is the bone of the upper or lower gums. The dental prosthesis, which has been prepared, will then be placed over the top of your gums to allow them to heal properly. The dental implant replicates the look and function of the original tooth.
Stage 3 – Time to Recover
Recovery is an important step which can take anywhere between 3 to 6 months. This will give you ample time for the bone to grow around the new implant and secure it in place. This will be a time when your gums may be swollen or bruised and the implant area may bleed a bit. It is important to adhere to the dentist instructions regarding soft food and maintenance of the implant. Effective healing will take place with tender care.
Stage 4 – Making the Crown
Once the implant is secure and has healed and bonded with the jawbone, another impression of your tooth will be taken. An artificial tooth will be created for that part. The artificial tooth or dental crown will then be fastened securely to this abutment.
Stage 5 – Inserting the New Crown
About two weeks’ time is given for the gums to heal. The final step is the insertion of your new crown. Thanks to technology, the dental crown, or the artificial tooth looks similar to the original tooth. The crown is then fixed atop the dental implantthat was fixed into your jawbone. Because of the strong roots, chewing and eating should be normal. A yearly follow up is usually recommended
Your Solution to Dental Implants – Dr. Aki Shirakura& Associates
Dental implants need not be unpleasant. If you are in need of one or you know of someone who has been struggling with a missing tooth or teeth, but has been hesitant to go to a dentist, rest assured, your fears will be allayed with us. Call us at 914-303-6150.
Who are the Ideal Candidates for Dental Implants?
A dental implant is an artificial tooth root that is placed into the jaw to hold a replacement tooth or bridge. It may be an option for people who have lost a tooth or teeth due to periodontal disease, an injury, or some other reason. Dental implants are a long-term option for restoring your smile. They are made up of titanium and other materials that are compatible with the human body
Ideal candidates for dental implants
The following are ideal candidates for dental implants:
- People with healthy gums.
- People having teeth that need to be replaced.
- People with good general and oral health.
- People with no untreated gum or bone disease.
- People with no medications because it may interfere with bone growth.
- People who have strong metabolic health.
- People who are not a daily smoker.
- People who have enough bone to anchor the implants in the jaw (people who have lost bone in their jaw still can get implants, but first they need to rebuild the bone using special procedures).
- People who are committed to taking good care of the implanted teeth and surrounding gums.
Some people who may not be good candidates for dental implants, include:
- Young people whose jawbones are still growing.
- Expecting mothers.
- Heavy smokers because smoking can reduce the likelihood of a successful implant.
- Alcohol or substance abusers because they might not follow the dentist’s instructions after placement of the dental implant. They also may not take good care of their teeth and gums.
- People who have received high-dose head radiation treatment or neck radiation treatment.
- People suffering from chronic diseases or systemic problems, such as uncontrolled diabetes, connective-tissue diseases, hemophilia and significant immune deficiencies.
Want to Undergo a Dental Implant Procedure? Contact Dr. Aki Shirakura & Associates
If you are considering dental implants, the staff at the office of Dr. Aki Shirakura & Associates is both trained and experienced in the process of dental implants. Contact us today to see if dental implants are the right choice for you. Call us at 914-303-6150 or email at draki@drakicosmeticdentist.com. We are dedicated to addressing and meeting the needs and expectations of each and every patient who walks through our doors.
Top reasons to choose dental implants
A Ddental implant is a modern technique for replacing missing teeth. It consists of an implant made of titanium that is fitted beneath the gum line, and a dental crown is fitted on top of the implant to form the upper part of the tooth. Dental implants are ideal for replacing missing tooth /teeth, restoring oral and general health. Here are the top reasons to choose dental implants:
- Functions like natural teeth
- Long-lasting tooth replacement
- Prevents bone loss
- Preserves the health of adjacent teeth
- Retains facial structure
- Better nutrition
- Can replace a number of missing teeth
- Easy to care for
- Improved confidence
- Restores your ability to speak normally
Dental implants involve replacement of the entire tooth structure. They look, feel and function like natural teeth. Dental implants are incredibly stable, they don’t slip or shift like removable dentures. This allows you to eat, speak and smile with complete confidence.
Dental implants are a permanent solution for replacing teeth. They become part of your jawbone. With proper care, dental implants can last a lifetime, unlike other tooth replacement methods that need to be replaced over time.
Tooth loss can cause the surrounding jaw bone to deteriorate. If left untreated, it can cause the jaw to be more vulnerable to fractures. A dental implant is the only tooth replacement method that can prevent bone loss and stimulate bone growth.
Empty spaces from tooth loss can cause the rest of the teeth to tilt off or loosen over time. Gaps create areas that are hard to clean, which leads to plaque buildup, and increases the risk of tooth decay and gum disease. Implants help to maintain the proper spacing and support from adjacent natural teeth.
Missing teeth can cause facial structure changes. They can cause cheeks to shrink and sag, creating a more aged look. Dental implants replicate the function of natural teeth. They support and retain the facial structure, giving your face a more youthful appearance.
It can be difficult to chew food properly with missing or unstable teeth. Dental implants restore your ability to chew a wide variety of food thoroughly before swallowing. This aids digestion; improve nutrition and overall health of an individual.
Several implants supporting a fixed bridgework, can replace multiple missing teeth. Usually, four to eight implants are used to replace a full arch (jaw) of teeth, containing 10 or more crowns on fixed bridgework.
Dental implants require the same care as natural teeth, such as brushing and flossing regularly. Dental implants never decay. However poor oral hygiene can cause gum tissues to be inflamed or infected. Good oral hygiene, regular professional cleanings and dental exams can help to prevent gum disease, and improve the lifespan of your dental implants.
Dental implants look natural and attractive. They can improve your appearance, confidence, and self-esteem. They can also help you regain the full functionality of your smile.
Missing teeth may cause a person’s speech to be distorted. Teeth play an important role in creating the sounds needed for normal speech. Dental implants restore normal speech function.
Contact Dr. Aki Shirakura& Associates
If you are considering dental implants, the staff at the office of Dr. Aki Shirakura & Associates are trained and experienced in the process of dental implants. Contact us today to see if dental implants are the right choice for you. To schedule an appointment, call us at 914-303-6150
Why is Cosmetic Dentistry Becoming More Popular?
A few years ago, cosmetic dentistry was something that was considered only by the rich and famous in their effort to maintain their ‘Hollywood’ looks. Over time, it has gained more popularity and has become a common procedure for anyone trying to improve their look.
The following reasons are why cosmetic dentistry procedures are becoming more popular:
Technological advancement
With the advancement in technology, cosmetic dentistry has vastly improved in the last 10-15 years. Painless injections and conscious sedation techniques have been developed to provide pain free dentistry. A patient can get computerized programs to build exacting 3D replicas of their mouth. Additionally, with the advancement in technology, a patient can have a set of teeth removed and replaced with natural looking replacements all in the same day.
Increase in demand
Men and women of all ages are self-aware about retaining their youthful look. Cosmetic dentistry is one of the many options which helps them to achieve their desired result.
Improvement in skills
Cosmetic dentistry used to be only practiced by a select few, who pioneered the early treatments. Nowadays it is practiced by thousands of highly skilled and well trained individuals who choose to practice it. They are well trained and are experts in the cosmetic dentistry procedures.
Affordability
Cosmetic dentistry is much more affordable these days. Many dentists offer patients various options of spreading payment over a period of time. Secondly, the procedure not only gives one a natural look, but it is also long lasting. A patient is not required to make frequent visits to the dentist.
Contact Dr. Aki Shirakura & Associates today
Call the office of Dr. Aki Shirakura & Associates if you are thinking of getting a cosmetic dentistry procedure in New York. You can call us at 914-303-6150 or email at draki@drakicosmeticdentist.com. We are dedicated to addressing and meeting the needs and expectations of each and every patient who walks through our doors and will give you the individualized professional care that you need and deserve.
Factors that Influence the Success of Veneers
Factors that Influence the Success of Veneers
Dental veneers are effective for restoring teeth that are chipped, stained, discolored, crooked or have gaps. You can have healthy looking teeth, and a bright smile from dental veneers. However, there are certain factors that influence the success of dental veneers and how long they last, including the following:
The type of dental veneers– The two main types of dental veneers are composite veneers and porcelain veneers. Composite veneers are made from a tooth-colored resin, and porcelain veneers are thin tooth-colored shells. Porcelain veneers are more durable than composite veneers. With proper care and hygiene, porcelain veneers can last for 15-25 years.
The quality of veneer preparation– Hiring Professional Interior House Painting ContractorsAccuracy in building the dental veneers is vital. The quality of the construction affects how veneer margins against the tooth and contact points with other veneers or natural teeth. The quality of preparation will also influence the veneer matching the existing teeth to create a natural color.
The condition of tooth/teeth– Sufficient tooth structure is essential for the strength of the tooth/teeth and bonding the veneers. Options like crowning can be ideal for fractured or heavily restored teeth/tooth.
The color of the teeth also dictates how much tooth enamel is removed before placing the veneer. Excessive discoloration or staining requires the removal of more tooth enamel for the best results. So consider whitening your teeth before treatment to minimize unnecessary reduction of the tooth structure.
The preparation of tooth/teeth– The right technique of preparing the incisal edge (tip) of your tooth for the veneer is important. The dentist can prepare the tooth depending on the strength of the tooth and aesthetics required. He or she can finish at the edge of the veneer or reduce the height of the tooth to create a natural looking result.
A tooth/teeth that are out of position also require more preparation before placing the veneer. However, if the tooth is far back, the preparation may be minimal and the thickness of the veneer simply increased.
Veneer placement– The type of bond/cement used, the quality of the cementation, and the bonding procedure is also crucial to the strength of the dental veneer. This protects the veneer and the tooth from any contamination that can weaken it.
Your oral hygiene– It is important to maintain consistent good oral hygiene. Poor teeth care and hygiene can lead to decay around the veneers as well as increase the risk of gum disease problems.
Your diet– Staining foods and heavy smoking can discolor your veneers. Generally, composite veneers stain considerably more than porcelain veneers.
Your habits– Some habits can increase the chance of chipping or fracturing your veneers. Avoid habits like chewing ice, pencils, nails, grinding your teeth, etc.
Dental checkup– Regular dental checkups and cleanings can help to protect your natural teeth and improve the veneers durability.
Contact Dr. Aki Shirakura & Associates for professional dental veneer placement
At the dental offices of Dr. Aki Shirakura & Associates, we put great care into getting your veneers just right. Schedule a consultation to learn more about dental veneers. We can tell you if veneers are right for your situation.
Different Options for Dental Replacement
Different Options for Dental Replacement
A dental implant is an artificial tooth root or a titanium screw placed into the jaw to support a replacement tooth or bridge. Dental implants are highly beneficial to those who have lost a tooth or teeth due to injury, periodontal disease or some other reason. The different options available for dental replacement are single tooth replacement, multiple tooth replacement and removable implant-supported tooth replacement.
Single tooth replacement
A single tooth replacement is when a tooth is replaced by a single implant and a crown. An implant which looks like a screw is placed into the jaw. After a period of healing, an abutment is attached to the implant. A replacement tooth called a crown, which is custom-made by the dental laboratory, is then attached to the abutment permanently. The custom made crown is fabricated to match the existing natural teeth.
Multiple tooth replacement
In a multiple tooth replacement, temporary healing caps or abutments are placed on multiple implants until the healing phase is complete.Once the healing is complete, permanent abutments are attached to the implants. These abutments can attach to custom made crowns or bridges that are fabricated to match the natural teeth.Finally, the custom bridge is cemented or screwed to the abutments.
Removable implant-supported tooth replacement
If all teeth are missing, removable implants can replace them. Depending on design of the removable restoration, two to six implants may be used to support a lower denture. If all the upper teeth are missing, a minimum of four implants may be used to support the upper denture. Many times, removable dentures are used to replace extensive tooth, bone and gum-tissue loss to support the facial skeleton, lip and cheeks. To create additional strength and support to the restoration, the dentures can have attachments or a custom made, milled bar can be fabricated.
Dr. Aki Shirakura & Associates
If you are considering dental implants, the staff at the office of Dr. Aki Shirakura & Associates is both trained and experienced in the process of dental implants. Contact us today to see if a dental implant is the right choice for you.
Benefits of Dental implants
Benefits of Dental implants
Dental implants are ideal for replacing missing or damaged teeth. This treatment has been recognized as a standard of care for tooth replacement for more than 50 years. Unlike other options, dental implants are the “next best thing to healthy, natural teeth.” Listed below are some of the many long lasting benefits of dental implants:
- Improved Appearance: Missing teeth can make you look much older than you are, causing your face to appear sagged, sunken and sad. Dental implants prevent this deterioration of the facial structure, improving the appearance of your face and smile.
- Boosting Confidence: If left untreated, missing teeth can cause lack of self-esteem and confidence. Replacing them with dental implants can make you look and feel better, and restore your confidence when smiling or speaking.
- Durability: Dental implants are a long-term solution for replacing teeth. Unlike tooth-supported dental bridges that only last five to seven years, dental implants are built to last. Periodic adjustments may be needed, but they can last a lifetime when properly placed and cared for.
- Improved Eating/Biting: Missing or damaged teeth can make biting or chewing an uncomfortable chore. Dental implants can improve the ability to chew food properly, and make eating enjoyable.You will be able to eat all types of foods, even crunchy or chewy foods.
- Healthy Jawbone: After losing one or more teeth, empty spaces in your jaw can lead to deterioration of the jawbone. When the jawbone is not being used to support natural teeth it loses strength and firmness. Dental implants are the only dental restoration option that act like natural teeth. They aid in stimulating bone growth and prevent bone loss.
- No Cavities: Cavities don’t occur in dental implants, however, it is important to visit your dentist to clean and care for your dental implants, and gums and mouth everyday—just as you would for natural teeth.
- Protects Healthy Teeth: Dental implants help to support healthy teeth and prevent adjacent teeth from shifting. Other teeth replacement options like dental bridges require grinding away the adjacent teeth. Dental implants do not require support from adjacent teeth. They are placed in the jawbone, where the missing tooth root was, without impacting healthy teeth.
- Comfort and Convenience: Dental implants are strong and stable like natural teeth. They look, feel, fit and function like a natural tooth. Other dental restorative options may interfere with eating, smiling, speaking and other activities of everyday life.
Contact Dr. Aki Shirakura & Associates
You deserve to smile again and you will, with dental implants from Dr. Aki Shirakura & Associates.The staff at the office of Dr. Aki Shirakura & Associates are both trained and experienced in the process of dental implants. Contact us today to see if dental implants are the right choice for you. Call us at 914-303-6150 or email at draki@drakicosmeticdentist.com.
Celebrities Who Had Cosmetic Dentistry
Cosmetic dentistry enhances the whiteness, fullness and shape of the teeth. It has become popular among many celebrities, who underwent cosmetic dentistry procedures to not only improve their teeth, but also their careers.
Below are 10 celebrities who underwent cosmetic dentistry procedures:
- Tom Cruise (Actor): Tom cruise started his career with discolored, out of alignment teeth. He underwent different cosmetic dentistry procedures such as whitening, straightening and veneers.
- Hilary Duff (Actress and Singer): In the beginning of her carrier as a Disney child star, Hilary Duff had imperfect teeth. As she transitioned more to singing in 2009, she chipped her tooth on a microphone while in concert. She then decided to upgrade to a full set of veneers, which have now greatly improved her smile.
- Nicolas Cage (Actor): To get into character for 1984 film “Birdy” Nicolas Cage had two teeth pulled. Once he moved on to leading roles, he got a full set of veneers.
- Victoria Beckham (Singer and Fashion Icon): Victoria Beckham’s old teeth had uneven spacing with wide gaps. She had her teeth straightened and bonded before she became a famous member of the Spice Girls in the late 1990s.
- 50 Cent (Rapper): 50 cent fixed his gapped teeth after another rapper called him out for the gap in a song. However, he made a conscious decision to not make his front teeth any smaller, because he still wanted to look like himself when he looked in the mirror.
- Jim Carrey (Actor): The chipped tooth Jim Carrey displays in the movie “Dumb and Dumber” was bonded decades ago. However, he removes the bonding occasionally to amuse fans.
- Celine Dion (Singer): Celine Dion’s teeth were imperfect until she underwent cosmetic dentistry procedures in 1990, after her career began to take off. Her teeth are whiter and smaller now.
- Morgan Freeman (Actor): Freeman’s teeth became yellow as he aged. He had his teeth whitened and the middle gap taken out. Now he looks younger than he did before seeing his cosmetic dentist.
- Mike Tyson (Boxer): As a boxer, Mike Tyson wasn’t known for pretty teeth. He went through a phase were he wore gold caps on his front teeth. He had his gap closed slightly and had veneers replace the gold caps.
- Miler Cyrus (Actress and Singer): As a teen singer during her days as “Hanna Montana” Miler Cyrus had slightly crooked teeth. She upgraded her teeth with whitening and straightening as she left Disney Channel to fit her new image.
Want great looking teeth? Contact Dr. Aki Shirakura & Associates
We perform restorations that can give you a Hollywood smile! A healthy smile not only improves your appearance, but also boosts your self-esteem and confidence. To request an appointment, call us at 914-303-6150 or email at draki@drakicosmeticdentist.com. We will give you the individualized professional care that you need and deserve.
Steps Involved in a Dental Crown Procedure
There are two main steps involved in a dental crown procedure which usually requires two visits to the dentist. The first step involves examining and preparing the tooth and the second step involves placement of the dental crown.
- Examining and preparing the tooth
- This is the initial process where the dentist prepares the tooth for the crown. The dentist might take a few x-rays to check the roots of the tooth receiving the crown and the surrounding bone. If the tooth is found to have decayed or if there is a risk of infection, a root canal will be performed to treat the tooth.
- While preparing for the crown, the dentist will anesthetize (numb) the tooth and gum tissue around the tooth. The tooth will be filed down along the chewing surfaces and the sides to make room for the crown. The amount removed depends on the type of crown used (for example, metal crowns are thinner than all-porcelain or porcelain-fused-to-metal crowns). If a large area of the tooth is missing due to decay or damage, the dentist will use filling material to “build up” the tooth to support the crown.
- After the tooth is reshaped, the dentist will use a paste or putty to make an impression of the tooth for the crown. These impressions will be sent to a dental lab where the crown will be manufactured. In two to three weeks the crown is returned to the dentist’s office. If the crown is made of porcelain, the dentist will select the shade that most closely matches the color of your teeth.
- The dentist will make a temporary crown to cover and protect the prepared tooth while the crown is being created. Temporary crowns are usually made of acrylic and are held in place using temporary cement.
- Receiving the permanent crown
- At the second visit, your dentist removes the temporary crown and checks the fit and color of the permanent crown.
- If everything is satisfactory, a local anesthetic will be used to numb the tooth and the new crown will permanently be cemented in place.
Contact Dr. Aki Shirakura& Associates
Dental crowns are an excellent way to get a beautiful smile. Would you like to know if a dental crown is right for you? Contact the dentists at for a consultation. Call us at 914-303-6150 or email us at draki@drakicosmeticdentist.com
Cosmetic Dentistry Procedures That Can Improve Your Smile
Cosmetic dentistry focuses on improving the appearance of a person’s teeth, and smile. Below are the dental cosmetic procedures that you can undergo to improve your smile:
- Teeth whitening: Teeth can become stained and discolored over time, especially from consuming food and beverages. At the office of Dr. Aki Shirakura & Associates, we offer teeth whitening service by using professional strength whitening products. Teeth whitening is a quick and inexpensive way to rejuvenate your appearance
- Bonding: Bonding improves teeth with spaces, chipped, broken, cracked or stained teeth. Bonding materials are also used to fill small cavities or to protect the exposed root of a tooth.
- Veneers: These are custom shells usually made from porcelain materials. They cover the front sides of the teeth to change color and/or shape. This procedure is good for people whose teeth are sensitive and their enamel has eroded.
- Crowns: Crowns or caps completely cover a tooth and restore the normal shape and appearance of the tooth. Crowns are made of metal, porcelain fused to metal, resin, or ceramic materials
- Enamel shaping and contouring: This involves removing or contouring dental enamel to improve the appearance of your teeth. The dentist may combine this process with bonding to alter the shape, length or position of teeth.
- Braces: Braces improve the look of crooked teeth, they can improve irregular bite, correct jaw positioning and jaw disorders. They apply pressure to and reposition teeth for a few months or longer in advanced cases. Another option for correcting minor space problems are clear custom appliances called aligners or invisible braces. Unlike fixed braces, aligners can be removed while eating, brushing or flossing. Often there are two phases of treatment with braces wearing braces, and then using a retainer to hold your teeth in their new position. Retainers can be removable or permanently bonded in behind your teeth.
- Dentures: They are used to restore missing teeth. Dentures are removable dental appliance that holds one or more artificial teeth.
- Dental bridges: Bridges are used to replace missing teeth with artificial teeth. They can be made of gold, alloys, porcelain, or a combination. Bridges use adjacent teeth as anchors. The dentist anchors them into the surrounding teeth after preparing them for them for crowns.
- Dental Implants: Implants are a long-term solution for replacing missing teeth. They are an alternative to bridges. A surgeon implants them surgically into the jawbone. Two or more implants can provide a stable support for replacing several teeth.
Contact Dr. Aki Shirakura & Associates!
A healthy smile not only improves your appearance, but also boosts your self-esteem and confidence. Our desire is that each and every client who walks through the doors of Dr. Aki Shirakura & Associates has a dental experience that they feel great about.