We get many inquiries from people asking for a rough estimate on a complicated dental treatment plan. A plan that could vary significantly both in timeline invested for the patient and the overall budget.

Here are 3 reasons getting the proper x rays helps you…

Proper X rays give your Dental team the best picture of your oral health, providing you with the most accurate timeline and the most accurate price.

Proper X rays give you a complimentary second opinion, many treatment plans are considered invasive and costly, having a second opinion gives you the benefit of an alternative treatment option and peace of mind that your treatment plan is sound.

Proper X rays help you in determining your real costs so you can set a realistic budget, it also means there are no surprises in the quoted costs once you arrive.

it is easy once you know your true budget to compare the savings by completing your dental treatment in Costa Rica.

For more information on the right kind of x rays for your treatment plans  contact our international patient coordinator at clinic@davincisdentalcare.com or call us today at 305 280 2272

Experience the DaVinci’s Difference!

People often ask what is included in the treatment quote. At DaVinci’s Dental Care we include all as a package price which includes anticipated single x rays, medications during treatments, healing caps, abutments etc.  giving you all pricing upfront prior to your appointment.

Make sure you do your due diligence as some clinics only include the mayor procedures leaving out x rays, medications, consultation and other treatments required, it may seem like the price is lower but when you add it all up at the end of the day all those incidentals have increased your treatment plan quote by 25% and sometimes higher. Some clinics charge as a unit price based on procedures and their insurance code and then charge out for everything including simple stuff like a quick mouth rinse.

Understanding the treatment quote is essential to making sure your budget is correct, and in making sure there are no surprises once you show up for your treatment. The best way to avoid this is to give as much information to your dental team as possible, limited dental information means limited estimate.

Here are some Tips to ensure you are getting the most comprehensive quote for your Dental treatment.

• If you have X rays or a treatment plan from your current dentist then share it with your Costa Rica dental team this will provide you the benefit of 2 key points of information; A) a 2nd opinion B) a treatment by treatment price comparison.

• Take the time to have a conference call with the Dentist, talk about anticipated procedures and the cost thereof, get a feel for their manner and expertise, this will help you feel excited and confident about your anticipated Dental Treatment.

• Make sure you get your quote in writing and review it when you have your in clinic consultation before you start any procedures, this will ensure there are no surprises at the end of your treatment … of course other than your new perfect smile!

If you have further questions about your dental treatment plan contact our International Patient Coordinator at clinic@davincisdentalcare.com or call us today at 305 280 2272

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Design the perfect smile for you… An introduction to the science of Digital Smile Design (DSD) software.

What is Digital Smile Design (DSD), and what does it do for you – Through a step-by-step workflow DSD gives you, the patient, full aesthetic evidence of the virtual smile in a very personalized way. With the modern technology of digital processing, the dentist is able to show a vision of the final prosthetic result prior to completion and can then provide the necessary information to the dental lab technicians for the execution of the perfect future prosthesis for each patient.

How does Digital Smile Design (DSD) work…Using just two images, the face with the patient’s smile and an intra-oral shot with a dental mouth opener, the DSD software then performs a series of accurate and mathematically controlled measurements to verify alignments, symmetries and proportions giving the patient the perfect smile before work has even commenced and ensuring your full satisfaction upon completion. These precise mathematical references allows the dental team to proceed to a digital reconstruction of your smile exactly as the one the real restoration aims to achieve, allowing you to view, and make changes if necessary before the restoration has commenced.  A mock up of the new smile is then created for you to try on so you can see how the final restoration will look prior to commencing any preparation of your natural teeth. Once the Mock is approved the DSD measurement and the mock are used to create the final restoration.

Why is it important for you.. Knowing what your smile will look like prior to commencing treatment is valuable tool for each patient, it gives you the opportunity to get involved in your smile creation, enhances the communication between you and your Dental Team which in turn improves your experience and satisfaction level with the restoration. Wouldn’t it be great to know exactly what your new smile will look like before work is completed?

Because when you invest in something as important as your new smile you want to know exactly  how it will look on you first!

Experience the DaVinci’s Difference!

Journal of Cosmetic Dentistry article 2016 Dr. Delfin Barquero

DaVinci’s Dental Care first in Costa Rica to offer True Laser Whitening in Clinic.

How does the LASER Whitening work?

First, we apply a protective barrier around your gums and apply a whitening agent to your teeth. Then we place the laser light onto your teeth, and in as little as 30 minutes – your teeth will become an average of 8-12 or more shades whiter!

Why do I need an Exam & Cleaning?

Since we use a prescription strength teeth whitening, our dentists suggest a cleaning before the teeth whitening. This is so we whiten your teeth directly and not on top of any plaque or tartar. This allows us to reach optimal whitening results.

Will it harm my teeth? You may experience some sensitivity after the procedure depending on your enamel, however this is only temporary and not typical. Using Sensodyne toothpaste prior to whitening helps reduce any sensitivity.  There are no long-term damaging affects from the whitening and we use every precaution necessary (gum barrier and glasses) to ensure your safety!

A professional cleaning and true laser whitening can make a world of difference to your smile in just one easy appointment.

For more information on whether laser whitening is right for you or to book your true laser whitening appointment contact our International Patient Coordinator at  clinic@davincisdentalcare.com  or call us today at 305 280 2272

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Are you noticing a change in your gum line and have concerns about receding gums?

There are many factors that can contribute to Gum Recession,  however the good news is it can be corrected and stopped.

There are modern techniques available like Gum Recession Grafting and Gum Recession Composites.

Both are completely different treatments in terms of recovery, success rate, benefits and costs.

Causes of gum recession include:

• Periodontal Disease

• Poor Brushing Technique

• Hormones

• Misalignment of the Teeth

• Orthodontics

• Oral Piercings

• Neglecting Oral Hygiene

• Bruxism

• Tobacco Use

For more information on Gum Recession Grafting and Gum Recession Composite and which is right for you

contact our International Patient Coordinator at clinic@davincisdentalcare.com or call us at 305 280 2272

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Gum Graft Composites Fillings … are they right for you?

A composite filling is a tooth-colored plastic and glass mixture used to restore cavities, cracked or broken teeth. Composites are used for cosmetic improvements of the smile by changing the color of the teeth and or reshaping disfigured teeth, but did you know they can also be used as Gum Graft Composite fillings?

Gum Grafting can be painful with an intense recovery period and many times the procedure over a short period of time fades and the results are negligible. However, Gum Graft Composites are an excellent cosmetic choice, they seal any cavities from the Gum recession area,  have zero recovery time and offer a long life span (8 – 10 years with proper oral health habits.)

How is a composite placed?

The dentist places the composite in layers, typically using a light specialized to harden each layer. When the process is finished, the dentist will shape the composite to fit the tooth and recessed gum area then finish with polishing the composite to prevent staining and early wear.

What is the cost?

Composites are generally half the price of crowns or veneers depending on the surface covered, they are non-invasive, inexpensive, and most dental insurance plans cover the cost of the composite up to the price of a silver filling, with the patient paying the difference.

Advantages of composites?

Aesthetics are the main advantage of composites, since dentists can blend shades to create a color nearly identical to that the gum and the actual tooth. Composites bond to the tooth to support the remaining tooth structure, which helps to prevent breakage and insulate the tooth from excessive temperature changes composites are effective for small to medium cavities. The dentist can also put a clear plastic coating over the composite to prevent the color from changing if a patient is particularly concerned about tooth color. They are non-toxic to the body.

If you are wondering if Gum Graft Composite Fillings are right for you contact our International Patient Coordinator for more information at clinic@davincisdentalcare.com or call us at 305 280 2272

 Experience the DaVinci’s Difference!

DaVinci’s Dental Care first in Costa Rica to offer True Laser Whitening in Clinic.

How does the LASER Whitening work?

First, we apply a protective barrier around your gums and apply a whitening agent to your teeth. Then we place the laser light onto your teeth, and in as little as 30 minutes – your teeth will become an average of 8-12 or more shades whiter!

Why do I need an Exam & Cleaning?

Since we use a prescription strength teeth whitening, our dentists suggest a cleaning before the teeth whitening. This is so we whiten your teeth directly and not on top of any plaque or tartar. This allows us to reach optimal whitening results.

Will it harm my teeth?

You may experience some sensitivity after whitening procedures depending on your enamel, however this is only temporary and not typical. Using Sensodyne toothpaste prior to whitening helps reduce any sensitivity. There are no long-term damaging affects from the whitening and we use every precaution necessary (gum barrier and glasses) to ensure your safety!

For more information on whether laser whitening is right for you or to book your true laser whitening appointment contact our International Patient Coordinator at  clinic@davincisdentalcare.com or call us today at 305 280 2272

The Benefits of using Baking Soda to brush your Teeth:

Changes pH of the oral cavity – A healthy mouth is non-acidic, neutral or alkaline. Sodium bicarbonate has been suggested to increase the pH in the oral cavity, potentially neutralizing the harmful effects of bacterial metabolic acids.
Is a polishing agent – Due to its abrasive nature plaque layered on the enamel of teeth are scrubbed off. With reference to the relative dentin abrasion tests done on straight sodium bicarbonate, its abrasiveness is favorable with low to the overall state of the enamel. This is as compared to other oral formulations, dentifrices and brands. Sodium bicarbonate, therefore, when used in the correct amount, is an effective polishing agent.
Increases calcium uptake by the enamel which strengthens the enamel.
Bicarbonate has been shown to decrease dental plaque acidity induced by sucrose, and its buffering capacity plays a major role in preventing dental cavities. Studies have shown that bicarbonate inhibits plaque formation on teeth and, in addition, increases calcium uptake by dental enamel. This effect of bicarbonate on teeth is so well recognized that tooth powder containing sodium bicarbonate was patented in the USA in October 1985.

HOW TO BRUSH WITH BAKING SODA

1) Pour some baking soda into a small dish or container.
2) Dampen your toothbrush with water.
3) Dip the toothbrush in the baking soda and get as much baking soda to stick to it as possible.
4) Brush your teeth for two minutes.
5) Brush the tongue for 20 seconds as well. Many germs live on the tongue.
6) Rinse with water.

For more information on Oral health tips contact our International Patient Coordinator at clinic@davincisdentalcare.com or call us today at 305 280 2272

No need to be afraid of the needle ever again! 

Yes we know you hate the needle and we  understand. Experience the benefits of Computer-controlled Local Anesthetic Delivery Systems at DaVinci’s Dental Care and enjoy pain free dental treatments.

In the mid-1990s, work began on the development of local anesthetic delivery systems that incorporated computer technology to control the rate of flow of the anesthetic solution through the needle and assist with pain management. This concept is now called computer-controlled local anesthetic delivery (CCLAD). The first of these CCLAD devices, such as the Wand™ was introduced in 1997.

This system enables the dental team to accurately manipulate needle placement with fingertip accuracy and deliver the LA with a foot-activated control. The lightweight hand piece is held in a pen-like grasp that provides the user with greater tactile sensation and control compared to a traditional syringe. The available flow rates of LA delivery are controlled by a computer and thus remain consistent from one injection to the next.

The greater control over the syringe and the fixed flow rates of the LA drug are responsible for significantly decreasing the pain of the injection, which helps to dramatically improve the overall experience for the patient.

For more information on this and other Dental Advances at DaVinci’s Dental Care contact our International Patient Coordinator at clinic@davincisdentalcare.com or call us today at 305 280 2272

Experience the DaVinci’s Difference Today!

Do you experience Canker Sores… you could be lacking in B12

They may look pale or yellow like an ulcer with a red outer ring, they are not contagious. You may experience one, or more at a time, and for reason unexplained women seem to get them more than men.

The cause of canker sores is not clear. It may be due to:

Diet

Weakened immune system (for example, from the cold or flu)

Hormone changes

Stress

Lack of certain vitamins and minerals in the diet, including vitamin B12 or folate

Less commonly, mouth sores can be a sign of an illness, tumor, or reaction to a medication. This can include:

Autoimmune disorders

Cancer of the mouth

Infections such as hand foot mouth disease

Weakened immune system — for example, if you have AIDS or are taking medication after a transplant

Drugs that may cause mouth sores include aspirin, beta-blockers, chemotherapy medicines, penicillin, sulfa drugs, and phenytoin.

If you are experiencing Canker sores frequently and you would like to schedule a dental exam contact our International Patient Coordinator at clinic@davincisdentalcare.com

Or call us today at 305 280 2272

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What is Dry Mouth?

Dry mouth is a condition that usually results from decreased production of saliva. At times, dry mouth or xerostomia can make it difficult to speak and may lead to malnutrition. Extreme dry mouth and salivary gland dysfunction can produce significant and permanent mouth and throat disorders and can impair a person’s quality of life.

Dry mouth affects about 10% of all people and tends to be more prevalent in women than men. Disorders of saliva production affect the elderly and those who are taking medications most frequently. There are many causes of dry mouth, most commonly it occurs as a side effect of medications that cause decrease saliva production, including blood pressure medications, antihistamines, antidepressants diuretics, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatories and many others.  Radiation treatments for cancerous tumors of the head, neck and salivary gland diseases, as well as hormonal imbalances, mouth breathing sleep apnea can also cause dry mouth. Eating disorders such as bulimia also increase the risk of developing dry mouth. Dry mouth can also occur during pregnancy or during breastfeeding due to dehydration and hormonal changes in the body. When a major salivary duct becomes blocked production of saliva can be decreased, reasons for this can mean an infection. Other causes of dry mouth can includes factors such as stress, anxiety or depression and of course dehydration. 

What are the benefits of saliva?

Saliva is an essential part of a healthy mouth the lubricating properties of saliva provide comfort and help protect the oral tissues against ulcers, sores, and other effects of friction. Saliva neutralizes acids and provides antibodies against bacterial threat. Saliva helps digest food and helps teeth in re-mineralization. Saliva is also a very essential contributor to a person’s ability to taste, as it acts as a solvent for the taste stimuli.

How to combat Dry mouth

Make sure you are getting enough water daily, drinking a big glass of water first thing in the morning helps to alleviate dehydration as well as a glass of water before bed helps keep the body hydrated during sleep.

For more information on dry mouth and how we can help contact our International Patient coordinator at clinic@davincisdentalcare.com or call us at 305 280 2272