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More attention is being given to CEREC in dental journals, of course. But even more exciting is that the public is becoming more aware of the advantage CEREC users have in caring for their patients. I have used this system for many years and am privileged to be an educator in the field. The CEREC system allows me to have complete control over procedures that I used to send to a dental lab for fabrication. To my clients this means that many times we are able to take care of them in one visit. That is only a fraction of the benefit. My experience and education in CEREC enables me to manufacture crowns, veneers, and fillings that are more natural looking and longer lasting than ever before. And, of course, all of these restorations are completely metal-free/bio-compatible; a field which is also receiving a lot of consumer interest. As this technology progresses, I will keep posting updates on this blog, letting you know what new and exciting developments are happening in the field. If you are in need of any type of dental restoration, I’d be glad to show you what amazing results CEREC can give you.

One of the most truly rewarding aspects of my profession is the opportunity to impact lives in a very positive way. When a patient is seeking a more confident, aesthetically pleasing smile, relief from TMJ pain,or just a healthier mouth; I am pleased to be able to design a plan to reach their dental goals. Doing so requires incorporating the most modern technology available with the artistic approach I have developed over my many years of practice.
Here’s an example: Neal came to me in a great deal of pain. The results of the treatment plan we implemented were as thrilling to me and my staff as to Neal himself.

Neal had premature wear on his teeth for his age. From the TMJ interview, we discovered a connection between the dental grinding, premature wear, and his TMJ pain.

Following dental records and the muscle/skeletal assessment, it was determined that Neal’s bite was over-closed and the lower jaw was drifting back due to bite collapse, creating a TM joint compression.




Chronic muscle fatigue eventually translates into sore cramping muscles leading to the TMJ pain.

Not all people with accelerated wear and overactive muscle activity will experience TMJ. It is all about neurological and muscle adaptation. When the physiological and psychological stress grows beyond the threshold of the brain and body to adapt, the signs and symptoms of TMD follow. This was Neal’s problem.

With the records and test results in hand, Neal and I discussed a workable solution to his primary dental objectives (rehabilitating the worn teeth, balancing the bite, and enhancing the smile). In my practice, my primary focus before initiating comprehensive restorative care is to establish a comfortable bite and jaw relationship. Following Neal’s successful fixed orthotic phase, the upper arch was restored to optimize aesthetics and function.
Technological advances in 3D imaging and virtual design now allow me to design the final restorations on a computer. I am my own ceramist and I design every wax-up. This means that I can “fingerprint” the final restorations (front veneers and posterior crowns) for ideal functional and aesthetic results.



The final restorations were then machined from a special grade of ceramic material that functions and appears like natural enamel.
The natural tooth gradation/color transition is already designed in the ceramic, so the aesthetic result is very natural. In addition, when these ceramics are bonded with precise clinical technique, they will surpass tooth strength and yet have wear properties that are as biologically compatible as enamel.
Artistic finishing techniques were used for the final texturing and superficial gloss. The artistic eye that I inherited from my mother shines through at this point.

Labels: Neal's Case

Many people are expressing concern over the mercury found in amalgam fillings and possible health risks. Since mercury scraps are considered a form of toxic waste, this does seem to be a viable concern; though amalgam fillings are still considered safe by government standards.

However, the effect of mercury on our over-all health is only one reason people are considering replacing existing amalgam fillings. Metal fillings containing mercury can actually weaken the tooth and eventually lead to problems such as fractures and bacterial invasion causing decay and toothaches; which may result in the need for a root canal or even in losing the tooth.

Modern dental technology has produced ceramic restorations which are more attractive than metal fillings. We take great pride in providing our patients with the most natural looking restorations. Our practice is unique in that I have had the opportunity to become an educator in the field of CAD-CAM dentistry. It has been my privilege to teach other dental professionals worldwide. The materials used are the most bio--compatible and functional ceramics in the world. Studies have shown that they wear like natural teeth, since our bodies recognize them as a material comparable to enamel - a familiar component.

A healthier mouth and more attractive smile can be a wonderful advantage of going metal free. And many patients are able to be metal-free in one to two visits.

If you're ready to replace your existing amalgam fillings with beautiful ceramic restorations, we will be glad to go over all options and show you the amazing results that some of our other patients have experienced by going metal-free. Our office staff eagerly awaits the opportunity to assist you.

Many patients come into the office and ask if tooth whiteing is a safe way to enhance their smile. We answer those patients with an emphatic "yes!"

The Gallery of Fine Smile Design is a unique center of excellence in cosmetic dentistry. Using the latest in advanced dental technology, Dr. James Klim creates dazzling smiles that brighten your life.