Factors to Consider When Choosing a Cosmetic Dentist

Choosing the right cosmetic dentist plays a vital role in achieving the smile of your dreams. With many options available, it’s essential to evaluate your choices carefully to ensure the best possible results. By focusing on specific factors like qualifications, technology, and personalized care, you can find a dentist who meets your aesthetic goals and ensures safe, effective treatments.

Qualifications and Experience

One of the first things to look for in a cosmetic dentist is their qualifications and experience. A highly skilled dentist will have specific training and expertise in cosmetic procedures. Don’t hesitate to ask about their certifications and continuing education in cosmetic dentistry.

Additionally, review their portfolio of before-and-after photos. These images showcase their ability to transform smiles and help you gauge the quality of their work.

Range of Cosmetic Services Offered

Every patient’s needs are different, which is why it’s crucial to choose a cosmetic dentist who offers a wide range of services. From teeth whitening to veneers and Invisalign, understanding the available options ensures you pick a dentist capable of addressing your specific goals.

For instance, teeth whitening can brighten your smile, veneers provide a flawless appearance, and Invisalign offers a discreet solution to straighten teeth.

Use of the Latest Technology and Techniques

Modern technology and innovative techniques are key factors in producing safe, effective, and comfortable cosmetic treatments. A dentist who invests in advanced tools and stays up-to-date with industry advancements demonstrates a commitment to delivering superior care.

Ask about the equipment and methods used during your consultation. At Robinson and Malone Dentistry, we utilize cutting-edge technology to enhance our procedures' precision and efficiency. From digital imaging to state-of-the-art equipment, we’re dedicated to achieving the best possible outcomes.

Personalized Treatment Plans

Your smile is unique, so your cosmetic dental care should be too. Personalized treatment plans that consider your oral health and aesthetic goals are essential for achieving satisfying results.

A skilled cosmetic dentist will take the time to understand your preferences and create a customized plan tailored specifically to you. We prioritize understanding your individual needs, ensuring every treatment enhances both your oral health and your confidence.

Positive Patient Reviews and Testimonials

Reading reviews and testimonials from other patients can provide valuable insights into the dentist’s approach and quality of care. By assessing patient experiences, you can gauge the trustworthiness and satisfaction levels of a cosmetic dentist.

Convenience and Accessibility

A conveniently located dental office with flexible hours can make a significant difference when choosing a cosmetic dentist. Accessibility ensures that appointments fit seamlessly into your schedule and that visiting the dentist is hassle-free.

Robinson and Malone Dentistry is conveniently located and offers office hours designed to accommodate busy professionals and families. Thus, you can prioritize your smile without disrupting your daily life.

Pricing and Payment Options

Transparent pricing and flexible payment options are essential when considering a cosmetic dentist. Ensure the dentist offers a clear breakdown of costs and flexible payment plans to make treatments accessible.

Communication and Comfort

Effective communication and a comfortable atmosphere are crucial in building trust with your cosmetic dentist. Look for a dentist who listens to your concerns, answers your questions, and ensures you feel at ease throughout the process.

Frequently Asked Questions About Cosmetic Dentistry

What is the difference between cosmetic dentistry and general dentistry?

Cosmetic dentistry primarily focuses on improving the appearance of your teeth, gums, and overall smile. Treatments like teeth whitening, veneers, and Invisalign fall under this category. General dentistry, however, centers on maintaining oral health through procedures like fillings, cleanings, and root canals. While the two overlap, cosmetic dentistry addresses aesthetic concerns to enhance your smile.

Does insurance cover cosmetic dental procedures?

Most cosmetic dental procedures, such as teeth whitening and veneers, are not covered by insurance as they are considered elective treatments. However, specific techniques that improve oral function, like crowns or Invisalign, may be partially covered. It’s best to check with your insurance provider and ask your dentist about financing options.

Contact Robinson and Malone Dentistry

Achieving the smile of your dreams begins with choosing the right cosmetic dentist. At Robinson and Malone Dentistry, we combine advanced technology, personalized care, and years of experience to create beautiful, confident smiles. Contact us today to schedule your consultation and learn more about how we can transform your smile!

How Do Dental Veneers Work?

In the world of cosmetic dentistry, dental veneers are a popular choice for those seeking a radiant and flawless smile. These thin shells, crafted from porcelain or composite materials, are custom-designed to cover the front surface of teeth. Their primary purpose is to enhance the appearance of teeth by correcting issues such as discoloration, minor misalignment, and small gaps. For more in-depth information on dental veneers, you can explore the dental veneers page.

What Are Dental Veneers?

Dental veneers are a versatile solution in cosmetic dentistry. They allow individuals to achieve a stunning smile with minimal alteration to their natural teeth. They serve as a cover, improving teeth's aesthetics while retaining much of their original structure. Veneers are bonded to the teeth's surface, effectively hiding imperfections like chips, discolorations, and minor gaps.

The Process of Getting Dental Veneers

The process of acquiring dental veneers typically involves three key stages. Initially, a consultation is conducted to determine if veneers are suitable for the patient. This stage consists of discussing the desired outcome and assessing the current condition of the teeth. Once suitability is confirmed, the preparation phase begins. During this stage, a small amount of enamel is removed from the teeth to ensure a perfect fit for the veneers. Impressions of the teeth are then taken to create custom veneers tailored to the unique shape and size of the patient’s teeth. Finally, in the placement stage, the veneers are carefully bonded to the teeth using a specialized adhesive, resulting in a natural and beautiful smile.

Types of Dental Veneers

There are two main types of dental veneers available: porcelain and composite. Porcelain veneers are renowned for their durability and stain resistance. They mimic the light-reflecting properties of natural teeth, giving them a more natural appearance. Composite veneers, on the other hand, are made from resin. They are generally less expensive than porcelain veneers but may not last as long or resist stains as effectively. Both types offer unique advantages, and the choice between them typically depends on the patient’s specific needs and preferences.

Benefits of Dental Veneers

The benefits of dental veneers extend beyond aesthetic enhancement. They offer a durable solution that can withstand the pressures of daily activities such as biting and chewing. Veneers are also resistant to stains from foods and drinks, making them an excellent choice for those who enjoy coffee or red wine. Furthermore, they provide an immediate transformation, boosting confidence and making social interactions more enjoyable.

Who Is a Candidate for Dental Veneers?

Not everyone is a candidate for dental veneers. Ideal candidates include individuals with healthy gums and sufficient tooth enamel, as veneers require a secure foundation. Additionally, those with minor cosmetic issues, such as slight misalignments or gaps, often benefit the most. It is crucial to have realistic expectations and be committed to maintaining good oral hygiene to ensure the longevity and effectiveness of the veneers.

Long-term Care and Maintenance

Proper care and maintenance are essential for the longevity of dental veneers. Daily brushing and flossing, along with regular dental check-ups, are vital to keep both natural teeth and veneers in optimal condition. Avoiding hard or sticky foods can prevent damage to the veneers. While veneers are resistant to stains, it is advisable to limit the consumption of staining substances to maintain their pristine appearance over time.

Frequently Asked Questions About Dental Veneers

Are dental veneers permanent?

While dental veneers are not permanent, they are a long-lasting solution. Porcelain veneers can last between 10 to 15 years or longer, while composite veneers typically last 5 to 7 years with proper care. Over time, they may require maintenance or replacement.

Can anyone get dental veneers?

Not everyone is a suitable candidate for dental veneers. Ideal candidates are those with good oral health and specific cosmetic concerns that veneers can address. A thorough consultation with a dental professional is necessary to determine candidacy.

Contact Robinson and Malone Dentistry

Enhance your smile with the stunning results that dental veneers can offer. If you're interested in exploring the benefits of dental veneers and discovering if they are suitable for you, contact Robinson and Malone Dentistry today. Our experienced team is ready to guide you through every step of the process, ensuring you achieve the smile of your dreams.

Transforming Your Smile: A Guide to Cosmetic Dental Procedures

A confident smile can be a game-changer, boosting your self-esteem and leaving a lasting impression. If you've been dreaming of a smile makeover, cosmetic dental procedures can help you achieve that dazzling, picture-perfect grin. In this comprehensive guide, we'll explore the various cosmetic dental treatments available, share insights from experts, and provide tips to choose the right dentist for your needs.

The Power of a Confident Smile

Your smile is one of the first things people notice about you. A bright, healthy smile can enhance your personal and professional interactions, making you feel more confident and approachable. Cosmetic dental procedures are designed to improve the appearance of your teeth, gums, and overall smile, addressing issues such as discoloration, misalignment, and gaps.

Popular Cosmetic Dental Treatments

There are several cosmetic dental procedures available to help you achieve your dream smile. Here are some of the most popular treatments:

Teeth Whitening

Teeth whitening is a simple yet effective procedure that brightens your teeth by removing stains and discoloration. This treatment can be done in-office or at home using custom-made trays and professional-grade whitening gel. It's suitable for anyone looking to enhance their smile's appearance quickly and affordably.

Veneers

Veneers are thin, custom-made shells that cover the front surface of your teeth. Made from porcelain or composite resin, they can correct various dental imperfections such as chipped, stained, or misaligned teeth. Veneers offer a natural-looking and durable solution for a flawless smile.

Orthodontics (Braces and Invisalign)

Orthodontic treatments like braces and Invisalign help straighten misaligned teeth and correct bite issues. While traditional braces use metal brackets and wires, Invisalign employs clear, removable aligners for a more discreet option. These treatments are ideal for individuals seeking long-term improvements in their dental alignment and function.

Dental Implants

Dental implants are a permanent solution for missing teeth. They consist of a titanium post surgically placed in the jawbone, which acts as a root for a replacement tooth. Dental implants provide a natural look and feel, restoring your smile's functionality and aesthetics.

Insights from a Cosmetic Dentist

We spoke with Dr. Kelly Robinson, a leading cosmetic dentist, to get her insights on these procedures. She emphasized the importance of choosing a qualified dentist and having realistic expectations about the results. "Cosmetic dentistry can transform your smile, but it's crucial to understand the limitations and risks involved," she said. "Always consult with a professional to determine the best treatment for your individual needs."

Choosing the Right Cosmetic Dentist

When selecting a cosmetic dentist, consider their experience, credentials, and patient reviews. Schedule a consultation to discuss your goals and ask for before-and-after photos of previous patients. Don't hesitate to seek a second opinion if you're unsure.

Frequently Asked Questions About Cosmetic Dentistry

What is the most common cosmetic dentistry procedure?

Teeth whitening is the most common cosmetic dentistry procedure because it is a quick and easy way to enhance your smile. It is non-invasive and highly effective for most patients.

Is cosmetic dentistry covered by insurance?

When cosmetic dental procedures are being performed for the sole purpose of improving your appearance it will not be covered by insurance. However, procedures that also serve a restorative purpose to improve your oral health may be covered.

The Journey to Your Dream Smile

Cosmetic dental procedures offer numerous benefits, from enhancing your appearance to improving your overall oral health. If you're ready to take the first step towards your dream smile, schedule a consultation with a qualified cosmetic dentist today. Transform your smile and boost your confidence with the help of expert care and advanced dental treatments.

By understanding the various cosmetic dental options and choosing the right dentist, you can achieve a beautiful, confident smile that lasts a lifetime. Don't wait any longer—start your smile transformation journey today!

Contact us today to learn more and schedule an appointment.

Celebrating Excellence: Dr. Robinson’s 11th Year as one of Texas’s Super Dentists®

For the 11th consecutive year, Dr. Kelly S. Hamblen Robinson has been named by her peers to the Super Dentists® list.  The full list will be published in a special advertising section in TEXAS Monthly in December 2024.  

After an extensive nomination and research process followed by a Blue Ribbon Panel review of all candidates, Dr. Robinson was once again named to the exclusive list.

Dr. Robinson comes from a family of dentists and became a third-generation graduate of Baylor College of Dentistry in 1989.  Soon after, she joined her parents’ dental practice in Lubbock before taking over the practice in 2000.

“I’m so flattered to be selected for the Super Dentists list again,” says Dr. Robinson. “It is such an honor to be recognized for doing vital work that I’m so passionate about. We continue to learn more and more about how crucial good oral health is to overall wellness and longevity. It is a privilege to share my knowledge and skills to help others live their healthiest, happiest lives.”

About Dr. Kelly S. Hamblen Robinson

Dr. Robinson has been at the forefront of oral health innovations for decades, focusing on preventative, reconstructive, and cosmetic dentistry. Her lifelong dedication to patient health includes extensive studies in bioregenerative dentistry, which enables her to employ conservative approaches to restoring teeth.

A firm believer in the value of preventive treatments, Dr. Robinson uses bacterial testing as a preventive treatment in her practice. She has embarked on extensive studies in sleep dentistry and is certified to treat obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) using oral appliances. As an expert in full mouth rehabilitation, Dr. Robinson is also selective about the labs she uses to create all dental restorations (bridges, crowns, dentures, implants, etc.).

Outside of her practice, Dr. Robinson remains passionate about helping others to improve their oral health. She has provided dental care and oral health education on many mission trips to countries including Haiti, Guatemala, and Mexico. She is also involved in a variety of charities and nonprofits, including the American Diabetes Association, the Lubbock Symphony, and others. 

Oral Healthcare at Robinson and Malone Dentistry

Today, Robinson and Malone Dentistry has practices in Lubbock and Snyder. The comprehensive, all-age practice is a top Google-reviewed dental practice offering services ranging from preventive care to whole-mouth reconstruction, using the latest advancements in dental technologies and techniques.

Robinson and Malone Dentistry provides complete pediatric, preventive, restorative, and cosmetic dentistry, with services ranging from routine cleanings and exams to Invisalign, teeth whitening, and complete mouth restoration with dental implants. The practice also offers periodontal treatments including scaling and root planing and periodontal maintenance.  

Frequently Asked Questions 

Do You Accept Care Credit?

Absolutely. CareCredit allows you to finance preventive, restorative, pediatric, cosmetic, or periodontal treatments at Robinson and Malone Dentistry.

Do you offer sedation for patients who experience fear or anxiety about going to the dentist?

Yes. We are devoted to providing patients with the essential oral healthcare they need. If you or a family member needs help relaxing during a dental appointment, please notify our team when booking your appointment.

Book Your Dental Appointment in Lubbock or Snyder, TX

Contact us today to schedule a dental appointment with Robison and Malone Dentistry. You may also message us to request an appointment and we will follow up promptly. 

Are You Properly Brushing Your Teeth?

Brushing your teeth is the single best thing you can do to maintain good oral health. Indeed, to achieve and maintain excellent oral hygiene, it’s crucial that you’re consistently, and properly brushing your teeth. To ensure you’re doing all you can to keep your teeth healthy and beautiful, all the while helping to safeguard your overall health, read on for best practices. 

Teeth Brushing Technique

Thoroughly removing plaque from the teeth requires proper technique when brushing. To best reach all areas of the teeth, begin by holding your toothbrush at a 45-degree angle.  Then begin moving the brush back and forth in short strokes over each tooth. Make sure to pay particular attention to the area at your gum line, as plaque tends to accumulate there.

 

 Be sure to brush the outside of the teeth, the inside of the teeth, along with the chewing surfaces of the back teeth. To keep your breath fresh, finish by brushing your tongue. 

Teeth Brushing Frequency 

The American Dental Association recommends brushing your teeth twice daily. However, you can certainly benefit from brushing more frequently. Brushing your teeth after meals is ideal for removing plaque that begins to form after you eat. If you’re unable to brush after each meal, rinsing your teeth with water after a meal is also a great way to remove some of the sugars and acids that mix with saliva to form plaque.  

Duration

To thoroughly clean the outer surface, inner surface, and chewing surfaces of the teeth, you should spend two full minutes brushing your teeth. To ensure you’re brushing for a full two minutes it may be helpful to set a timer on your phone.  

 

If you’re brushing for less than two minutes, you’re missing out on a valuable opportunity to remove 26% more plaque than if you only brush for 45 seconds, according to a comprehensive study

 

Flossing: Why Brushing Alone isn’t Enough

Even if you have excellent teeth brushing technique, and follow the American Dental Association’s recommendation to brush at least twice daily for a full two minutes, you’ll still need to floss. Brushing your teeth will not remove the plaque that accumulates between the teeth.  Daily flossing helps remove bits of food and debris in the mouth that leads to tooth decay. 

 

Options for flossing include dental floss, dental tape, or a water flosser. All are effective at removing food and plaque from between the teeth.

Frequent Professional Dental Cleanings Promote Good Oral Health

The final steps in achieving and maintaining a healthy and beautiful smile are regular dental cleanings. Professional cleanings remove the plaque that can’t be removed at home.  Professional cleanings also include dental exams, so that any potential problems can be caught and treated early. Regular preventive dental care can save you time, money, and potential pain, ensuring a healthy mouth for years to come. 

Frequently Asked Questions about Brushing Your Teeth 

What type of toothpaste should I use?

We recommend non-abrasive fluoride toothpaste. Although toothpastes that contain abrasive agents such as charcoal or baking soda are fine to use on occasion, we recommend you limit their use to prevent enamel erosion.

 

What type of toothbrush should I use?

Many people prefer electric toothbrushes, and there is some evidence they may be more effective at removing plaque than manual toothbrushes. However, the type of toothbrush you use is less important than consistent and proper brushing techniques.

 

Schedule a Dental Cleaning in Lubbock or Snyder, TX

If it’s been six months or longer since your last dental check-up and cleaning, it’s time to schedule your appointment.  To best serve our patients, Robinson and Malone Dentistry has two offices in Lubbock and Snyder, TX.  Book your appointment today.