Cosmetic & Restorative Dentistry of the Keys Blog

Aesthetic Approach: 3 Tips for Keeping Dentures Bright

January 10, 2026

Complete set of dentures next to dental mirrors on reflective surface

Dentures are the tried-and-true solution for tooth loss because they can rebuild your smile’s appearance and functionality regardless of how many natural teeth are remaining. Your dentist can provide a lifelike restoration that can potentially last 5 to 10+ years if cared for correctly.

However, even those who are committed to keeping their prosthetics clean might eventually notice the teeth have become stained over time. You might think you can whiten them with topical treatments, but that’s usually not the case. Read on to learn 3 tips that can help you maintain the shade of your dentures!

(more…)

How to Tell When Your Dental Crown Should Be Replaced

December 17, 2025

3D image of a dental crown

Dental crowns are designed to protect damaged teeth and restore function, but they aren’t permanent. With time and daily wear, even a well-made crown can begin to fail. Recognizing the early warning signs that a crown needs replacement can help you avoid discomfort, infection, or more extensive dental work down the road.

(more…)

Why You Should Welcome the New Year with A Dental Checkup & Cleaning

December 15, 2025

Woman in the patient’s chair smiling in a handheld mirror

Scheduling a dental checkup and cleaning is probably the last thing you want to do as December slowly creeps into January. But there are plenty of benefits that make welcoming the new year with a routine appointment an excellent idea! You’ll be able to take advantage of the dental insurance reset, for example, and will be better set up to enjoy good health in the days and months to come.

Not quite convinced? Keep reading – the details are sure to impress you!

(more…)

Cost-Effective Cosmetics: Enhancing Your Appearance on a Budget

November 9, 2025

Neck-to-chest view of dentist in white coat holding model tooth and piggy bank

Did you know that research shows that having dental problems has been negatively associated with the probability of being employed? Flaws in your teeth, like chips, cracks, stubborn stains, or mild misalignments, can detract from your appearance and oral health, and you might develop anxiety worrying that you’ll be judged.

Your dentist can enhance your smile with one or more cosmetic services, but you might hesitate to schedule a consultation if you’re afraid you can’t afford them. Continue reading to learn about 3 tips that can potentially help you upgrade your appearance regardless of your current financial situation!

(more…)

5 Must-Know Tips to Avoid a Dental Emergency

October 17, 2025

Woman in dentist's chair holding face in pain.

A dental emergency can strike at any time—whether it’s a sudden toothache, a cracked crown, or a knocked-out tooth. These situations can be painful, stressful, and costly, especially if they happen after hours or while you’re traveling. The good news is that many dental emergencies are preventable with a little extra care and awareness. By following these 5 must-know tips, you can keep your smile safe and reduce the risk of unexpected dental trouble.

(more…)

What to Expect if It’s Been a While Since You’ve Seen the Dentist

October 3, 2025

Dentist working with patient.

Life gets busy, and it’s easy to let dental visits slip through the cracks. Maybe you’ve missed a cleaning or two—or maybe it’s been several years since your last appointment. Whatever the reason, you’re not alone. Many people delay dental visits due to busy schedules, anxiety, or simply forgetting to book one. The good news is that it’s never too late to get back on track. Here’s what you can expect when you finally make that long-overdue appointment and how to make the most of it.

(more…)

Smelly Dentures? Here’s How to Keep Them Fresh

August 11, 2025

Man holding hand to mouth

Wearing dentures can restore confidence in your smile and make everyday activities like speaking and eating easier. But if you’ve noticed that your dentures smell bad, you’re not alone. Just like natural teeth, dentures need daily care to stay fresh and clean. Without proper hygiene, odors can develop, leading to bad breath and discomfort.

The good news is that with consistent care, you can keep your dentures odor-free and your smile feeling fresh.

(more…)

3 Reasons Why You Should Replace Your Old Metal Crown

July 7, 2025

Man smiling after getting an all-ceramic crown

Did you get a dental crown in the past that was made of metal? It may have been your only choice then, but now you feel that people look at it when you laugh, smile, or even eat! While it’s doing the job right, it may make you a little self-conscious. Thankfully, advancements in dentistry have now offered an all-ceramic option. They are just as durable and functional while blending into your smile. Keep reading to learn three reasons why you may want to swap out your metal crown.

(more…)

Smile Makeover Musings: 3 Questions to Ask Your Dentist

June 5, 2025

Dentist in purple gloves touching patient's cheeks as she smiles in mirror

Your dentist offers various cosmetic services, such as veneers, teeth whitening, and dental bonding, that can address aesthetic imperfections to boost your confidence. However, if you have severely damaged, decayed, broken, or missing teeth, you might need more than surface-level procedures to upgrade your grin.

Your dentist can help you achieve your goals with a total smile makeover, but you might hesitate to contact them if you’re unsure what to expect from the process. Continue reading to learn 3 questions to ask before moving forward with your elected treatments!

(more…)

5 Bad Habits to Avoid with Dental Implants

May 3, 2025

Person pulling a cigarette from its pack.

Dental implants are one of the most durable and natural-looking solutions for replacing missing teeth. They offer stability, function, and a confidence-boosting smile. But while dental implants are built to last, their long-term success depends heavily on how well you care for them. Certain habits, especially if continued after implant placement, can jeopardize the health and lifespan of your implants. To protect your investment and keep your implants functioning well for years to come, here are 5 bad habits you should avoid.

(more…)