Frequently Asked Dental Questions – Mount Pleasant, SC

What is smile analysis/smile design?

Smile analysis is a process that helps us in determining the proper aesthetics of your smile in relation to your facial symmetry, lip line, and phonetics. Each person has a unique "perfect" smile, one that is proportional and flattering to their face.

Smile analysis is both a science and an art. We will take photographs of your smile and measure the current proportions of your teeth and gums. Then, using the “golden proportions” that artists have used since the time of Leonardo da Vinci, we will redesign your smile. This may involve changing the shape, size, color, or position of your teeth so that we can create a beautiful new smile that also functions flawlessly.

For us, the most rewarding part of this process is watching patients’ reactions when they see their new smiles for the first time. We see an immediate change in their confidence and their interaction with others—they are ready to smile at the world! Those first, wonderful smiles remind us of why we got involved in dentistry in the first place, which is to help others.

What makes you different from any other dental office I could visit?

Dr. Johnson and Dr. Gregory have extensive training that sets them apart from other professionals in the area. They have each invested hundreds of hours of their time into sharpening their skills and advancing their knowledge, and they have attended prestigious continuing education institutions like the Las Vegas Institute for Advanced Dental, Engel Implant Institute, and Spear Education. Dr. Gregory has also been recognized as a Fellow of the Academy of General Dentistry, which requires hundreds of hours of continuing education, regulated testing, and nominations.

Each dentist on our team has unique skills that they bring to the table, allowing them to offer a wide array of services and top-tier dental care to patients. For example, Dr. Johnson can place dental implants in-office and has extensive BOTOX and dermal filler training, while Dr. Gregory is a distinguished LVI-preferred dentist. You can read more about our team and their impressive credentials by visiting their biography pages.

Where can I learn more about Dental crowns, inlays, onlays, and bridges?

If patients have questions, our team is more than happy to answer them if you call our dental office. Or you can visit the dedicated pages for each of these restorative services.

How can I improve the appearance of my front teeth?

There are several treatments we could recommend depending on your situation. The simplest is Zoom! in-office whitening, which can immediately brighten your smile. Other options include porcelain veneers and Invisalign clear braces. Come in and talk with us about which solution is best for you.

How can I safely whiten my teeth?

Zoom! Whitening is a safe and effective technique to make your teeth look brighter. We have a special suite in our dental office dedicated to Zoom!, and thanks to brand new technology, we can whiten your teeth in as little as an hour. We can also provide take-home trays so that you can maintain your beautiful smile after your initial treatment.

If my gums are not bleeding, that means that they are healthy and infection-free, right?

Not necessarily. While bleeding gums are one sign of periodontal disease, only your dentist or hygienist can accurately diagnose periodontal (gum) problems. Periodontal disease is a serious oral health problem; left untreated, it can lead to bone and tooth loss. We are specially trained in the latest techniques for finding and treating periodontal disease while minimizing any discomfort to you.

What is neuromuscular dentistry?

Neuromuscular dentistry involves bringing the muscles, teeth, and jaw into a comfortable, relaxed position. Neuromuscular dental treatments can help reduce the grinding and wearing of teeth, relieve headaches and neck pain, and lessen other problems associated with TMJ dysfunction.