This Year, Make a New Year’s Resolution to Smile About!

Let’s face it- when was the last time you managed to keep a New Year’s resolution? We at Dental Excellence believe the key to sticking to a goal is picking one that is both reasonable and attainable. If you haven’t yet picked a New Year’s resolution, consider setting one that will improve your oral health!
For example, resolve to brush twice and floss once a day. Good oral hygiene only takes a few minutes a day, and can make a big difference in your oral health and overall health too! For more oral health-themed resolutions for you and your family, check out this article.
We would love to see what you come up with, share with us by commenting on this post or on our Facebook page. Whatever your New Year’s Resolution, we wish you the very best for 2012!

-Happy New Year, from your friends at Dental Excellence

Season’s Greetings from Dental Excellence!

In this season given to tidings of comfort and joy, and as our team at Dental Excellence reflects on the year that was, we’d like to ask you, our wonderful patients: What do you love about the holidays this year? Being with your loved ones? A clean slate for 2012? Opening presents by the fireplace? All the delicious food? Also, what gift are you most looking forward to getting this year?

We’d love if you shared with us all the things you love about the holidays. Stay warm, and don’t forget to stay away from those sweets!

Beware of those Christmas goodies!

At Dental Excellence, we know maintaining a healthy diet over the holiday season can prove a difficult task. After all, who can resist the tasty treats of Christmas? With grandma and everybody else offering you candy, chocolate logs or Christmas pudding, you just can’t say “I’ll pass” each time. But trouble lurks: every time you chow down on that chocolate or candy, the bacteria in your mouth have a feast on the sugar—at your expense. The sugar turns into acid, and the acid eats away at the enamel on your teeth. Then, you start getting cavities.

Instead, our friends at the American Dental Association recommend nuts or dried fruit, which are a nice alternative to sugars and have a greater nutritional value—and can satisfy your sweet tooth! Both nuts and fruit are a great source of fiber and act as an appetite suppressant. In addition, nuts are a great source of Vitamin E, Vitamin B6 and Vitamin B9, nutrients that contribute to a healthy immune system. Nuts are also a rich source of omega-3 fatty acids, which have been linked with reducing heart disease and lower blood pressure.

If you must indulge in chocolaty goodness this Christmas or holiday season, remember to brush your teeth after eating sugary treats. Hope this helps! Give us a call if you have any questions!

Happy Holidays!

Kids and Teeth Grinding

Grind, grind, grind. If you live with a teeth grinder, you may be familiar with this unpleasant sound. Did you know teeth grinding, or bruxism, is common in children as well? In fact, three out of 10 kids grind or clench their teeth, usually in response to losing teeth, jaw growth or other discomforts, such as allergies or infections. Teeth grinding is typically a passing phenomena as most kids outgrow it by the time they reach their teenage years. An important thing to remember is that kids frequently grind their teeth in response to stress, and taking measures to reduce or eliminate stress can help solve the problem.

The first step of recovering from teeth grinding is noticing the problem. Symptoms of teeth grinding include:

• Sensitivity in the teeth
• Tightness or pain in the jaw
• Dull headaches, earaches, or facial pain
• Chipped, worn down, or loose teeth

If your child is a teeth grinder, we may be able to help. Please give our Independence office a call or ask our team on Facebook!

Share your winter break plans with us!

Dr. Matt Wiley and our team at Dental Excellence want to know: what do your winter plans look like? Do you have any plans for an exciting family vacation? Are you hanging out around town? Catching up on sleep? Spending time with friends? Let us know!

Please feel free to share your exciting winter plans and experiences with us here or on our Facebook page! We would like to wish all of our patients and their families a safe and fun holiday season!

Happy Thanksgiving, from Dental Excellence

With the start of the busy holiday season right around the corner, Drs. Carr, Hawkins, LaBarca, Smith, Wiley and our staff wanted to stop for a moment to say how thankful we are to have you in our dental family. We realize that our practice thrives because of great patients like you. We are the lucky ones because we not only help keep you and your smile healthy, but we also have the pleasure of knowing you and your loved ones.

As always, if you know anyone we can help, just let us know. We promise to give them the same quality care that we have given you.
We hope that this Thanksgiving and holiday season brings fond memories. Thank you for being part of our family.

The Boy Scouts visit Dental Excellence

This month, the Boy Scouts from Troop 266, Blue Elk District: Heart of America Council, visited Dental Excellence to work on their Dentistry Merit Badge with Dr. Lauren Carr.

We hope everyone had a wonderful time!

November is National Diabetes Awareness Month!

At Dental Excellence, our team knows the way you care for your teeth at home doesn’t just affect your oral health – it can impact your overall health as well. In recent years, researchers have found clear links between the mouth and other parts of the body, and the evidence is especially impactful for people with diabetes.

November marks Diabetes Awareness Month, and a great time to learn about how keeping your mouth healthy is vital to your overall health, too. If you are one of the nearly 26 million Americans currently living with diabetes, there is some good news: you can protect your gums and teeth from the effects of diabetes by visiting our Independence office for regular check-ups and cleanings. Most people should have at least two dental appointments per year, but those folks living with diabetes may require additional visits to make sure their dental health remains in top shape. Many insurance plans provide expanded benefits for diabetic patients. Our team of experts can tell you how often you need to come in for your dental visits.

For more information on how we can help, please give us a call or ask us on Facebook!

Halloween 2011 at Dental Excellence

The entire team at Dental Excellence hopes you had a fun and safe Halloween! Here are a few photos from this year’s Halloween at our office.



We would love to see what kind of costumes you or your children came up with this year. Share your Halloween 2011 photos with us by posting on our Facebook page.

Breast Cancer Awareness Month at Dental Excellence

Dereen Fortsch, who is one of our scheduling coordinators, won the silent auction for a pumpkin carved by Dr. Matt Wiley! The pumpkin was one of the items auctioned to raise money this month for Breast Cancer Awareness month. At the end of this month, through our fund raising events at Dental Excellence, we will have raised a total of $1,000. We want to thank Becky Fowler for all of her hard work in organizing the events this month.

This last Tuesday, October 25th, we had a chili and soup lunch for everyone to celebrate the end of our fund raising efforts for Breast Cancer Awareness month. Thanks to everyone who brought food for us to enjoy!

Happy National Boss Day from Dental Excellence!

In honor of National Boss Day, the hygienists at Dental Excellence brought in breakfast for their Doctors today. It was a beautiful spread of breakfast choices. The Doctors want to thank their wonderful hygienists for such a great start to their day!

Congratulations Lori!

This is a picture of Lori Morgan who is one of our Treatment Coordinators at Dental Excellence. Lori guessed the correct amount of candy balls which was 82. Lori won not only the jar of candy but a tote bag. Congratulations Lori!

Dr. Wiley participates in the first inaugural Mission of Mercy

Dental Excellence dentist, Dr. Matt Wiley, and his fiancé, Heather, recently took part in the first inaugural Missouri Dental Association’s Mission of Mercy (MOMOM). Mission of Mercy provides charitable dental care through the volunteer efforts of the dental profession and community. The Mission of Mercy event that Dr. Wiley participated in was a 2-day Free Dental Care Clinic on September 23^rd and 24^th in Springfield in which $1.1 million in free dental care was donated, 1,856 patients received care, and was comprised of 1,046 volunteers. Of the volunteers, there were 587 general volunteers, 3 physicians, 25 nurses, 83 hygienists, 170 assistants, and 178 dentists!

We encourage you to ask Dr. Wiley all about his experience with Mission of Mercy the next time you visit Dental Excellence.

Manual vs. Electric Toothbrushes: What’s the Difference?

Everybody is jumping on the electric toothbrush bandwagon in recent years, with many experts in the dental field claiming electric toothbrushes provide superior dental care. It’s true that electric toothbrushes are recommended for those who can’t do a good job brushing manually or who have arthritis or other conditions. But manual toothbrushes do have some advantages, according to an article we recently found including:

• Cost. While electric toothbrushes may be expensive for many people, manual toothbrushes are both inexpensive and accessible.

• Less pressure on your teeth & gums. While we can feel the amount of pressure we’re using as we grasp our manual toothbrush, we can’t feel the pressure nearly as well with an electric toothbrush. Placing too much pressure on our teeth can wear away at the tooth enamel, which causes pain, sensitivity, as well as an increased risk of tooth decay.

• Simple to pack. Manual toothbrushes are easy to carry around for those business or family trips. People are less likely to let their good dental care habits lapse on vacation with a toothbrush that they can easily bring along!

• Better for kids. Learning at a young age how to properly use a manual toothbrush helps children get a feel for how to properly take care of their oral hygiene.

Electric toothbrushes, on the other hand, are more effective in removing plaque and are considered a better alternative to maintaining gum health. Remember, whether you choose a manual or an electric toothbrush, our team encourage you to choose one with soft bristles and be sure to change the bristles on the electric brush when they become worn down. We also encourage you to replace your toothbrush every three months, when the bristles are no longer straight and firm or after you recover from a cold.

Give us a call at Dental Excellence if you have any questions or ask us on Facebook!

Happy brushing!

What was your favorite part of Summer 2011?

The end of Summer and then subsequently the beginning of Fall are just around the corner. Soon the temperatures will cool down, the leaves will start to change, and we’re sure that you’ll be thinking about Halloween costumes and Thanksgiving plans.

But wait! First, we want to know: What were your favorite parts of the Summer of 2011? Did you go on a wonderful family trip? Did you pick up a new hobby? Did you try to spend as much time outside and in the sun as possible?

Share your favorite memories, stories, or photos with us by leaving a comment below or on our Facebook page.

-Our team at Dental Excellence

Breaking Bad Habits

At Dental Excellence, we know good dental health requires only a few minutes of your day. We thought we’d provide some practical advice on how to improve your or your child’s smile between your visits with our team.

Start by brushing your teeth twice a day. Proper brushing techniques are an essential part of maintaining good oral health, as well as preventing gum disease. Brushing daily helps remove decay-causing plaque from tooth surfaces. Please consult our doctors if you would like us to review brushing techniques with you or your child. Flossing daily will also prevent plaque to build up between the teeth and prevent stains between your teeth. Research has shown the bacteria of gum disease has been linked to coronary artery disease, stroke, diabetes and memory loss. Lastly, we encourage you to throw away old toothbrushes and replace them every 2 or 3 months, or after an illness.

We hope this helps! If you have any further questions about any of these tips, please contact Dental Excellence or ask us on Facebook!

Dental Excellence Celebrates Dental Office Manager Month

August was "Dental Office Manager Month." We wanted to take a moment to recognize Linda Heck, office manager for Dental Excellence. Linda is without a doubt one of the cornerstones of our office. With 38 years of service, she has a wonderful understanding of our patient's wants and needs, our staff, and the day to day workings of our office. Her job description touches every facet of the practice and would be way too lengthy to list.

While the job can often be busy, she handles it all with great energy and enthusiasm.

Thank you Linda for all of your hard work! All of the doctors, staff, and patients of Dental Excellence greatly appreciate what you do!

Talking Veneers with Dental Excellence

At Dental Excellence, we know that, for many people, porcelain veneers do more than change smiles—they change lives. After all, there’s no reason to put up with gaps in your teeth or with teeth that are stained, discolored, badly shaped, chipped, or crooked. A veneer placed on top of your teeth at Dental Excellence can correct nature’s mistake or the results of an injury and help you have a beautiful smile. Veneers are a highly popular solution among dental patients because of their life-like tooth appearance!

Veneers—sometimes called porcelain veneers or dental porcelain laminates—are thin, custom-made shells crafted of tooth-colored materials designed to cover the front side of your teeth. To prepare for veneers, our team at Dental Excellence will create a unique model of your teeth, which is then sent to the dental technician to create your veneers. Before placing your new veneer, your doctor will remove a small amount of your tooth to make room for the veneer. When placed, you’ll be pleased to see that veneers look like your natural teeth and even resist staining.

For more information on veneers, or if you have any questions about your treatment with us, please feel free to give us a call or ask us on Facebook!

5 Delicious and Nutritious Snacks for Kids!

At Dental Excellence, we know getting kids and teens to eat healthy isn’t always an easy task, especially when they’re busy with school and other school- and social-related activities. At the school cafeteria, it's just too easy for kids to nosh on French fries, chicken nuggets and other fried foods and unhealthy snacks, so our team thought we’d pass along five delicious and nutritious snacks we know your child will love.

1. Cheese – Cheese is one of the healthiest snacks for your child's teeth. In addition to providing large amounts of much-needed calcium, cheese also does its part to fight cavities. Cheese stimulates the body's salivary glands to clear the mouth of debris and protect them from acids that weaken them, according to the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry. This means cheese disrupts the development of cavities, especially when eaten as a snack or at the end of a meal. Calcium and phosphorous found in cheese reduce or prevent decreases in the plaque's ph level and work to re-mineralize the enamel of your child's teeth.

2. Blueberries - These tiny nutritional powerhouses are loaded with Vitamin C, as well as folic acid, minerals, fiber and disease-fighting phytochemicals, which have shown to help prevent cancer and diabetes. Kids love them sprinkled with a bit of sugar, topped with whipped cream, added to muffins and pancakes.

3. Whole wheat bread or cereal – With bread, kids get their iron, vitamins, magnesium, and zinc. With vitamins, calcium, and fiber, a bowl of enriched whole grain cereal with milk—and even fruit—is a power-packed snack or healthy start to the day.

4. Almonds - They’re rich in disease-fighting phytochemicals and Vitamin E, and also have good amounts of fiber, iron, and calcium. Let your kids eat them raw. (Note: Whole nuts are a choking hazard for children under 3 years old.)

5. Yogurt - Eating dairy is not just healthy for building strong bones, but is essential for maintaining a strong, healthy mouth. Low-fat yogurt is an excellent source of calcium, especially when whipped up in a parfait with berries and granola. Homemade fruity yogurt pop sure beats sugary store-bought frozen treats!

We encourage you to check out the other 15 healthy snacks your child can enjoy at any time of the day! For more information about which dairy foods are best for keeping your teeth healthy, please post your question here on our blog, give us a call or ask us on Facebook!

A few patient reviews for Dental Excellence

Drs. Carr, Hawkins, LaBarca, Smith, Wiley and team, serving Independence Missouri deliver the highest quality dental care in a personalized environment. We make dental treatment fun and enjoyable. Just see what our patients have to say!

"This office is outstanding in their treatment of your mouth as well as the treatment as a client. I will be back." -Caroline C.

"Our experience at Independence Dental Excellence was outstanding. We arrived without a reservation and were accommodated after a very short wait. All personnel were professional, pleasant and knowledgeable. All questions were answered in layman's terms that we easily understood. We rate you at AAA+++" -Ava B.

"Tender Loving Care yet very professional and knowledgeable. I have been to other dentists and oral hygienists who ran roughshod through my mouth- Ouch! Not Dental Excellence -these folks are very gentle and personable. They know your name." -Karen N.

"I switched over to this dental group and have been amazed at the care I have received. Unlike other doctors/dentists offices...they are always on time. I have never had to wait longer than 5 minutes. They are always very friendly and knowledgeable. I would highly recommend this dental office and specifically Dr Carr." -Michelle

Dental Implants for patients with diabetes

Our team at Dental Excellence understands dry mouth, gum disease, delayed healing and other health issues are all special concerns for our patients with diabetes. But what are your options when infection has weakened teeth beyond repair? In many cases, dental implants are recommended as permanent replacements for damaged teeth.

Recent studies of dental implants with diabetic patients show success rates of higher than 90 percent. In the rare case that the implant does not blend properly to the bone, we can remove and the procedure at Dental Excellence can be repeated. While the process of implantation takes longer than conventional treatments like bridges, the strength and durability of implants make them an excellent long-term solution for your tooth replacement. If you have diabetes and have lost one or more teeth (and your diabetes is under control), you may consider implants. However, if your blood sugar is not controlled, we recommend putting off any non-emergency dental care, including implants, bridgework and dentures – until you’ve worked with your primary care physician to control it.

Otherwise, feel free to give us a call and our staff will try to answer any diabetes-related questions we can.

Why do you choose Dental Excellence?

Dental Excellence, serving the community of Independence, strives to provide exceptional treatment in an informative and friendly environment. Have you had a great experience at our office?

Share your story with the world!

Just select the "Review Us on Google Places" button above to write a review on our Google Places Page. We look forward to receiving your feedback!

Thank you,
The team at Dental Excellence

Imagining your Life with Invisalign at Dental Excellence

Are you wondering what Invisalign treatment is really like, and what effect it will have on your day-to-day activities? Will it slur your speech? Will people know you're in treatment? You're not alone in your concerns! Our team thought we’d share this list of questions and answers for anyone pondering Invisalign treatment at Dental Excellence.

How exactly does Invisalign work?

Using 3-D computer imaging technology, Invisalign creates a series of custom-made, clear aligners exclusively for your teeth, based on the treatment plan that we specify for you. Each aligner moves teeth incrementally and is worn for about two weeks, then replaced by the next in the series until the final position is achieved.

Will I experience pain during treatment?
Most people experience temporary discomfort for a few days after a new aligner is placed. This feeling of pressure is normal and is a sign that Invisalign is working by sequentially moving your teeth to their final destination.

Can other people see that I'm in treatment?

One of the benefits of Invisalign is that the aligners are clear. You can straighten your teeth without anyone knowing.

Are there any foods I shouldn’t eat while in treatment?

You can eat normally during the entire course of treatment. One of the advantages of Invisalign is that the aligners are removable. Simply take the aligners out before each meal, brush when you're finished eating, then reinsert the aligners afterward.

What about chewing gum?

We recommend removing your aligners for all meals and snacks, as gum and other chewy substances can stick to the aligners.

How often must I wear my aligners?

Aligners should be worn all day, except when eating, brushing, and flossing.

Will my speech be affected by the aligners?

As with any orthodontic treatment, aligners may temporarily affect your speech. If this does happen, your tongue will adjust within a day or two and your speech should return to normal.

How do I clean my aligners?

The best way to clean your aligners is by brushing and rinsing them in lukewarm water.

How often must I visit the office during treatment?

For most patients, visits every 4-6 weeks are frequent enough for us to determine that your treatment is progressing properly. We will provide you with a specific schedule that supports your individual treatment plan.

If you have additional questions about the Invisalign treatment, please give our office a call.

Mr. Bean goes to the dentist!

How about a treat today? Here's a little classic dental humor for you to enjoy, from the bumbling yet lovable British spy, Mr. Bean. We loved it, and know you'll get a laugh as well. Enjoy "Mr. Bean-At the Dentist”!

If you have any other video suggestions you think we should share with other patients, please let us know!

- Drs. Carr, Hawkins, LaBarca, Smith, Wiley and team

Ask Dental Excellence: When is thumb-sucking a cause for worry?

Lots of you have asked us about whether it’s healthy for children to suck thumbs (or, less frequently, fingers). If you’ve got a thumb-sucker in the house, you are not alone. Research tells us that between 75% and 95% of infants suck their thumbs.

Is this anything to worry about? In most cases, probably not. Sucking is a natural reflex for an infant, and can provide security and contentment as well as relaxation for your little one. It’s a habit that most kids grow out of between the ages of two and four.

However, if your child keeps sucking after he’s gotten his permanent teeth, it’s time to take a closer look. If your child sucks his thumb aggressively, putting pressure on the inside of his mouth or his teeth, it could cause problems with tooth alignment and proper mouth growth. If you’re worried, give Dental Excellence a call and we will help assess the situation, and provide tips for how to help your child break the habit.

What’s On Your Summer Reading List?

With summer in full swing, the Dental Excellence team wanted to remind all our patients about the importance of reading. Sure it’s easy to keep putting off reading this time of year, but reading during the summer is a vital step in brain development and warding off the dreaded “summer slide.” Plus, it's fun!

Today, we thought we’d ask: What's on YOUR summer reading list? What are some of your all-time favorites? Out of ideas for great summer reads? Ask us for suggestions, and our team would be happy to provide a few suggestions.

Happy reading! Be sure to share with us your summer picks or your all-time favorites on our Facebook page!

$1.50 for a Cavity!

Vending machines are a quick way to satisfy hunger. You put in $1.50 and you get back a candy bar, bag of chips or even a soda…but that’s not all! Our team wants to remind you that vending machines not only dispense sweet treats and caffeine bursts, but they also dispense cavities!

Every time you chow down on that chocolate bar the bacteria in your mouth have a party feasting on the sugar. The sugar quickly turns into acid; that’s right, ACID!!! The acid sits on your teeth and eats away at the tooth’s natural enamel (the stuff that protects your tooth from decay). When this enamel is eaten away by the acid on your tooth, you get a cavity! Brushing your teeth after eating a sugary treat can help prevent cavities; but before you indulge, remind yourself: “can’t brush? Hold the sugar!”

When choosing a snack, consider these nutritional options that will not only satisfy your hunger and that “sweet tooth,” but won’t cause acid build up resulting in cavities:

• Fresh Fruits (berries, oranges, melon, pears, etc)
• Raw Vegetables (broccoli, celery, carrots, etc)
• Bread
• Pretzels (low salt)
• Milk (low or non-fat)
• Cheese (low or non-fat)
• Nuts and seeds (pumpkin seeds, sunflower seeds, etc)
• Sliced meat

If you would like more advice about how you can prevent cavities, give Dental Excellence a call or ask our team during your next appointment.

What are your summer plans?

Summer is finally here, and the team at Dental Excellence thought we’d ask: What’s your favorite part about summer? Is it the warm weather? The free time you get? Spending quality time with friends and family? Grilling barbecue in the backyard?

Our team would like to know what makes your summer truly special. Let us know by posting a comment below, or on our Facebook page.

Happy Summer!

What do you LOVE about Independence?

Dental Excellence, your Independence dentist, is situated around some pretty unique neighborhoods. Each is special with its own personality, created by the people and places (and our amazing patients) living within.

Today, our team thought we'd ask: What are your favorite things about Independence? Is there a local event you attend every year? Do you have a favorite eatery? Perhaps a favorite getaway in Missouri?

Please feel free to share some information about your favorite local hang-outs in Independence, and everything you love best about “your neck of the woods” in Missouri. Leave a comment below or on our Facebook page.

If you need to schedule your next appointment, give us a call! Have a great week!

Smile, it's National Smile Month!

According to the American Dental Association, a person's smile outranked eyes, hair and body as the most important physical feature, which is why it's important for our team at Dental Excellence to support National Smile Month this June.

Here are a few simple steps you can take to improve your oral health so that you may celebrate National Smile Month for many, many years to come:

* Brush at least twice a day with fluoride toothpaste.
* Floss every day to clean between your teeth.
* Reduce your intake of sugary foods and drinks.
* Visit Dental Excellence regularly (about every six months).

If you have questions about any of these tips, we encourage you to give us a call.

What’s so bad about nail biting?

We’ve all heard that biting your nails is an awful habit, but you many wonder- really- what’s so bad about it? Recently, our team at Dental Excellence found an interesting article that discusses how biting your nails affect your teeth and oral health.

Nail biting, also known as Onychophagia, is a common habit among various age groups, including primarily children, teens and young adults. Nail biting is generally triggered by stress and most often decreases with age. That being said, nail biting is unsanitary, unattractive, as well as unhealthy for your teeth!

Here’s why:

• It’s unsanitary. Your nails are dirty, almost twice as dirty as your fingers! Hence, biting your nails is just asking for germs and bacteria.

• No good things come to your teeth. Nail biting causes your teeth to constantly be chewing, which is not good for them. This excessive motion wears your teeth down faster than a non-nail biter’s and puts a large amount of stress on your front teeth- contributing to teeth misalignment.

• Braces don’t love it either. Braces already put pressure on teeth, nail biting ads unnecessary pressure, further stressing your teeth and weakening their roots.

• It can be costly. Nail biting can result in up to $4,000 in additional dental bills over one lifetime, according to the Academy of General Dentistry (AGD). Yikes!

What can you do about it?

Now that you know how harmful nail biting can be, it’s time to take action to break your nail biting habit. Try to be conscious of your fingernails and to keep them looking good- this will help you resist the temptation. Ask one of our doctors or visit the article for tips on how to break a nail biting habit.

Good luck!

Your friends at Dental Excellence

Dental Excellence, wishes you a Happy Memorial Day Weekend!

Memorial Day weekend, a time to remember and honor the men and women lost while serving for our country. Memorial Day is also the unofficial start of summer, and for many folks in Independence, getting out of town for three days after being cooped up in the classroom or the office spells sweet, sweet relief.

What about you? What are you up to this Memorial Day weekend? Whether you are headed to a barbecue, a camping trip, or just hitting the great American open roads, we’d like to hear all about it!

Our entire team at Dental Excellence wishes you a happy, safe and relaxing Memorial Day weekend!

Dental Excellence, Independence CEREC® Provider

CEREC is a technology for restoring damaged teeth, and this restoration can be completed in a single visit to Dental Excellence. It makes your teeth stronger and more beautiful — all while keeping your teeth looking natural. The restoration is metal-free and the high-grade ceramic material is compatible with the natural tissue found in your mouth. This is the finest restorative material available today, all in one appointment.

The CEREC Process

First, we will meet with you to discuss the details of the procedure. During the procedure, we will apply a thin layer of reflective powder onto your tooth and will use a special camera to take a photo of your tooth. Using Computer Aided Design, the photo serves as an optimal impression. The restoration will then be designed by the computer on this impression. Then CEREC will use a diamond bur and disk to create your restoration piece out of a high tech ceramic. Finally, the ceramic restoration is bonded to your tooth using state-of-the-art adhesive dentistry.

Dental Excellence is your local CEREC dentist for single-visit tooth restorations. Call us today to schedule an appointment.

Is Invisalign® really customized for each patient?

Yes, it is, and that’s part of what makes it work. To find out if you are the right candidate for Invisalign treatment, the first thing we do is to take an impression of your teeth as they are now and digitize it. Using special software, we look at the current positioning of your teeth and compare it to the way your teeth should look.

Next we use special software to map out the exact path your teeth will take from the beginning of your treatment to the end. Based on the results, a set of custom aligners are created just for your teeth. Throughout the course of treatment, you will be required to wear these clear, removable aligners one at a time; each one moving your teeth closer and closer to their final, perfectly aligned position. The best thing about it all? Nobody around you will even know you are wearing braces!

Dental Excellence is a certified Invisalign provider. If you have questions about Invisalign, or would like to find out if you are a candidate for Invisalign treatment, please give Dental Excellence a call.

What, exactly, are wisdom teeth?

Wisdom teeth are a type of molar that is found in the very back of your mouth and are the last molars to develop. There are four wisdom teeth: upper left, upper right, lower left, and lower right. These teeth usually appear in late teens or early twenties but may become impacted (fail to erupt) due to lack of room in the jaw or angle of entry. The removal of wisdom teeth has become so commonplace that it is almost a rite of passage for young adults.

Our dentists will tell you that when a tooth is impacted, it may need to be removed. If it is not removed, you may develop gum tenderness, swelling, or even severe pain. Impacted wisdom teeth that are partially or fully erupted tend to be quite difficult to clean and are susceptible to tooth decay, recurring infections, and yes, even gum disease.

Our friends at WebMD have developed a helpful explanation about wisdom teeth and how they impact your health. Also, feel free to give us a call with any questions you have or ask us on Facebook!

Tammy Lauffer recieves the Crystal Apple Award for Teaching!

Dental Excellence would like to congratulate one of our very special patients, Tammy Lauffer, for receiving the Crystal Apple Award for teaching! The Crystal Apple award is given to teachers who dedicate themselves as true mentors to the students they teach. Watch the video below to see the Fox 4 team surprise Tammy with the award at her school.

Congratulations Tammy!!


 

The Dental Excellence Experience--What do our patients have to say?

For over 40 years, the team at Dental Excellence has been providing the community of Independence MO with the dental care and service that you desire and deserve. Our entire team works hard every day to ensure that our patients’ experience with dental treatment is nothing less than exceptional. Why don't we let some of our amazing patients tell you for themselves:

"My family has always had great experiences at Dental Excellence...and "great experience" is not something you typically associate with trips to the dentist. I would recommend Dental Excellence to anyone. Thanks DE!"
-Blake S

"Over the Years I have had many good Dentists but the service and staff at DENTAL EXCELLENCE is beyond fantastic."
-Joyce M.

"My sons have been coming to the office for a couple of years now, but I just had my first visit. My hygienist was the best I have ever had. Not only did she do an excellent job cleaning my teeth, she was extremely knowledgeable about my dental health and care needs. Also, the billing process is fully explained up front and is easy to read and understand exactly what the charges will be."
-Renee

"It has always been a pleasant experience whenever I come for dental work. There is never anything to dread I have always looked forward to each of my visits."
-James H.

"I found Dental Excellence after I had neglected my teeth for a long. Within a few months and a staff of true professionals I have a beautiful smile and dental implants that allow me enjoy anything I choose to eat. Thank You Dental Excellence!"
-Joyce S.

"Everyone is so nice and friendly. I'v never had to wait more then 5mins to be seen. Every one is always smiling and pleasant and business like. Going to the the dentist is my most unfavorable thing in life, but going to Dental Excellence makes it pleasant. THANK EVERYONE."
-Deborah B.

If you haven't had a visit with Dental Excellence yet, please give our office a call so we can schedule you for an appointment.

Have a great day!

-Drs. Lauren Carr, Mike Hawkins, John LaBarca, John Smith, Matt Wiley, and team

Ask Dental Excellence: What oral issues should I be aware of during pregnancy?

Maintaining your oral health is an important part of keeping your entire body well, and never more so than when you’re expecting. If you’re pregnant or considering pregnancy, schedule an appointment with us, and remember to raise the issue of your oral health at prenatal appointments with a Dental Excellence dentist.

If pregnant, you should be aware of the following oral health issues:

• Tooth Decay
Excessive morning sickness can also contribute to tooth decay, as the acids in your stomach introduced to the mouth during vomiting wear away the protective enamel coating on your teeth.

• Gingivitis & Gum Disease
This is a major issue. The precursor to gum disease is gingivitis, a condition in which plaque buildup on teeth irritates the gums, making them red, swollen and sensitive. The high levels of hormones in the bloodstream brought on by pregnancy exaggerate your gums’ reaction to irritation from plaque.

• Loose Teeth
Another risk faced during pregnancy is loosening teeth. The large amounts of hormones in your bloodstream can have an unfavorable affect on the bones and ligaments that create the foundation of your teeth, weakening them to the point that teeth may loosen.

The ideal time to schedule an appointment at Dental Excellence is before becoming pregnant. Our dentists will perform a check-up to determine the state of your oral health and how pregnancy might affect you. We will discuss completing any necessary treatments prior to your pregnancy. Give us a call today!

Play it Safe this Spring, from Dental Excellence

With spring here, many children, teens and adults in Independence will once again pick up the ball, bring the bat out of seasonal retirement, and lace up their cleats to hit the fields for the return of spring sports! April is National Facial Protection Month, and during this time, and our dedicated team urges our young athletes to play it safe when out on the field. According to the National Youth Sports Safety Foundation, children, high-school athletes and adults will have more than 5,000,000 teeth knocked out in sporting events this year.

Here are a few ways to ensure your mouth’s safety this spring:

1. Wear mouth guards for contact sports such as baseball, softball, soccer and lacrosse.
2. Wear a helmet
3. Wear protective eyewear
4. Wear a face shield to avoid scratched or bruised skin
5. Be alert, even as a spectator

We hope that helps. Protective gear is vital for anyone engaging in tooth or mouth-threatening activities. If you have any further questions about any of these tips, please contact Dental Excellence. Stay safe and have fun!

Don't forget about Fluoride

There are so many ways you protect your teeth throughout your dental treatment at Dental Excellence. You brush your teeth twice a day, floss regularly and protect your mouth and appliances from being damaged. But did you know there is another, often forgotten about, way to keep your teeth clean and healthy during your treatment? Fluoride – a mineral that helps prevent cavities and tooth decay – can help keep your teeth strong! Fluoride comes in two varieties: topical and systemic. Topical fluoride is applied directly to the tooth. Topical fluoride includes toothpastes and mouth rinses. Systemic fluorides are swallowed in the form of a dietary supplement.

Fluoride used in the dentist's office is often times a stronger concentration than in toothpaste or mouthwash, but is available at some drug stores or a pharmacy (ask your doctor how to purchase professional strength fluoride). A fluoride treatment typically takes just a few minutes. After the treatment patients may be asked not to rinse, eat or drink for at least 30 minutes in order to allow the teeth to absorb the fluoride. Depending on your oral health or doctor’s recommendation, you may be required to have a fluoride treatment every three, six or 12 months. Your doctor may also prescribe a fluoride product such as mouthwashes, gels or antibacterial rinses for at-home treatment.

When choosing your own fluoride product, be sure to check for the American Dental Association’s (ADA) seal of acceptance. Products marked with the ADA seal of approval have been carefully examined and have met the criteria of the ADA for safety and effectiveness.

Take care of your teeth, and smile bright!

Flossing with Dental Excellence

We hope you are not a part of the 51 percent of Americans who don’t floss every day. And we definitely hope you're not part of the 10 percent who never floss at all. The Dental Excellence team will always tell you that proper flossing is just as important for your dental health as brushing regularly. Flossing, you see, cleans food and plaque that build up between teeth and below the gumline, key areas that brushing simply cannot reach.

Flossing 3-to-5 minutes each day is recommended, but even 60 seconds of flossing has a great benefit over not flossing at all. Also, make sure to always brush your teeth after you floss, and to rinse with water or mouthwash. When you begin flossing you may experience gum pain or bleeding, but with daily flossing and brushing this should stop within a week or so.

Lastly, has it been at least six months since your child's last checkup at Dental Excellence? If the answer is yes, we encourage you to schedule an appointment!

Patients explain their Dental Excellence experience

The Dental Excellence team loves getting patient reviews. And lately, we have been getting some pretty great patient testimonials! We thought we'd share some with you today!

"Dental work is excellent. Doctors and professional staff are caring and gentle. Great location convienient to get to from any direction. Clean offices and state of the art equipment is most impressive."
-Kevin G.

"Dr. Smith is the master of the molar, the artisan of the incisor, the brain surgeon of the bicuspid. The whole procedure (dental bonding) took less than a half hour, and now my formerly chipped snaggletooth is a sparkling white monolith, flawless in shape and sheen. I am no longer self-conscious about my smile, and my gleaming grill is now on full display for everyone, especially the ladies."
-John

"The people who work at Dental Excellence all truly care about their patients - not just their dental hygiene. Everyone there is very understanding careful to erase any "dentist fears" I may have had."
-Angela W.

"I would highly recommend anyone looking for a professional and knowledgeable Dentist to use the services of Dr John LaBarca. He stands by his work and guarantees 100% satisfaction. My family and I have been patients of Dr La Barca's now for over 10 years and we are extremely happy!"
-Troy

"I can't say enough about the people at Dental Excellence. I highly recommend Dental Excellence, they go above and beyond to help you out in way that they can."
-Kathleen

"I have been very pleased with the services that I have received at Dental Excellence. They really know the meaning of customer service! Everyone that I have come in contact with has been very professional and caring."
-Sheryl K.

If you would like to schedule an appointment or if you have any questions for us, please give our office a call. We'd love to help!

What puts you at ease at Dental Excellence?

The Dental Excellence team understands not everyone is thrilled to see the dentist. But we strive to bring you the best and most comforting experience at each visit. We’d like to know:

What is it about Dental Excellence that makes you comfortable or puts you at ease? Is it something about our pleasant office environment? Our friendly staff or our doctors?

Let us know by posting here, on our Facebook page, or by giving us a call!

Dr. Carr celebrates 20 years with Dental Excellence!

Dr. Lauren Carr has been providing beautiful smiles and enriching the lives of her patients at Dental Excellence since 1991 and today marks her 20th anniversary.

Dr. Carr spent the day celebrating with balloons, cake, and flowers from her staff and she graciously provided lunch for everyone from Original Pizza.

Here's are some pictures from the celebration: