Fortunately, all of our patients benefit from minimally invasive dentistry because of the superior properties of the more biocompatible and stronger materials than were available even 15 years ago. Thanks to advances in our restorative and adhesive bonding technologies, combined with a long tradition of minimally invasive dentistry, we no longer make traditional crowns unless we are replacing old crowns that have failed. Rather than grind down all sides of a tooth to make an old-fashioned crown, modern technology allows us to just remove what is damaged, along with creating a millimeter of thickness for the new restoration. This is especially exciting in the realm of complete mouth rehabilitation, because we don’t have to match a dysfunctional oral environment. Instead, we are re-making the oral environment, meaning that we can usually just make your new teeth about a millimeter taller, thereby rebuilding the damage while saving you from further dental destruction. This pays serious dividends, because research has shown that cutting down your tooth for an old-fashioned crown results in 4.3 times as much tooth destruction as is needed for shaping it for a minimally invasive veneer.
A Gentle Approach to Preserving Your Smile
At Timeless Dentistry, we believe in protecting the teeth, bone, gums, and other natural tissues of the mouth. Tooth enamel is the strongest tissue in the human body. And importantly, it is the only tissue in the body that has zero capacity for regeneration. Imagine that! But while every dentist knows they should strive to preserve enamel at all costs, the go-to treatment at most other offices (in Forest Hills in particular, New York in general, and beyond) is tragically often just to drill out damaged tooth structure. Usually, this is done just because it’s convenient, simple, and familiar. However, we use multiple methods, from simple fluoride treatments to polymer infusion, advanced antimicrobials, and even cutting-edge bioengineering technology, to arrest and even reverse cavities, bone loss, and other damage. This is possible due to our blend of expertise and investment in technologies, but more than anything, it is a matter of how much we care about always doing what we know is right for our patient, never letting our convenience or the whims of an insurance company dictate the care you receive, but rather always living up to our moral, legal, and ethical responsibilities to fully inform you of your treatment options and let you choose what you feel is best for you and your family. This approach preserves the priceless tissues of your mouth, often rendering drilling and other invasive techniques unnecessary. Practicing minimally invasive dentistry supports lifelong health, beauty, and function and a better dental experience. How many times have your elders told you with a tinge of regret that whatever you do, you need to take care of your teeth? We couldn’t agree more, which is why minimally invasive and regenerative treatments are a cornerstone of our treatment philosophy.
What is minimally invasive dentistry?
This philosophy is about naturally preserving as much of the tissues that developed within your body as possible. It stands in contrast to more invasive dental practices commonly referred to as “drill, fill, bill.” The latter approach involves drilling out damaged parts of a tooth (not the most tooth-preserving or conservative approach) and rebuilding the now-missing parts with a dental filling. The dentist can easily bill for the service because these are among the most common treatments offered by dentists, making reimbursement from insurance companies straightforward. This model is often criticized as it emphasizes the convenience of the dentist and a paternalistic approach to patient treatment, in which the patient is told what to do by the dentist rather than being educated to a point of making their own decisions that best fit their values. Instead, our north star is to follow the techniques below that support a healthier smile and a better experience.
At Timeless Dentistry, we focus on the essential techniques of minimally invasive dental care, which include:
- Prevention—Why drill and fill when you can prioritize good oral hygiene, tailored nutritional guidance, and professional cleanings to prevent cavities, gum disease, tooth grinding, acid reflux, sleep apnea, and other diseases visible in the mouth?
- Early detection—We have the on-site capabilities to catch the initial signs of enamel erosion, gingival inflammation, tooth attrition, and more. Some of the most subtle signs of problems may be missed at other offices. When we are aware of these issues, we can work with you to resolve them before they turn into damage that requires treatment, or, worse, conditions of the head and neck that can be life-threatening.
- Conservative treatments – Our dentists use precision techniques in all that they do, whether it be altering only the damaged areas of a tooth and leaving healthy structure intact when placing a veneer or onlay crown, or exactingly planning and executing dental implants in a way that makes the best possible use of bone in the jaw, speeds your healing process, and supports and maintains the tissues essential to the esthetic and functional success of the implant. Precision dental care is associated with conservative treatment, because it targets the problem areas so well – since the number one goal is to preserve what nature gave you, surrounding tissues are left untouched whenever possible.
What is a specific example of minimally invasive care?
Take our periodic cleanings – at every cleaning visit, our hygienists and doctors devote the time that you deserve for a complete focus on prevention. We not only check for problems that require treatment, but also fully assess all factors that could lead to future problems. We ensure you completely understand these factors and provide you with the skills and tools to prevent potential future problems. And, while most dentists would just start drilling, we routinely catch dental issues that can then be arrested without needles or drilling. Our clinically proven technologies can stop a detectable amount of decay and even reverse it before it becomes a cavity. But our commitment to your health goes far beyond your mouth. To understand all the preventive work we do at every visit that could save your life, have a look at our Whole-body Wellness section.
What are the benefits of minimally invasive dentistry?
Less invasive procedures usually result in better patient satisfaction and better long-term outcomes, because they preserve natural tissues. The more natural tissue we can protect, the more natural-looking (and natural-feeling) the result. Less invasive procedures are also associated with faster healing and fewer complications, such as discomfort and bleeding. By preserving the essential tooth structure and tissues, we support your long-term health and function. Teeth treated in this manner are strong and durable, and not vulnerable to breakage that can then weaken the tooth and allow harmful infection-causing bacteria to enter over the years.
A beautiful, healthy smile is timeless. It never goes out of style. To learn more about our approaches at Timeless Dentistry, call (718) 310-3866 to schedule a consultation in Forest Hills, NY, today.
Timeless Dentistry is a remarkable practice lead by Dr Paul Springs. Everyone in the practice is warm, friendly and welcoming. I’ve never experienced a practice that’s committed to providing a total dental experience that focuses on an accurate professional diagnosis, personalized care and concern for your comfort & satisfaction. I needed and received implants. Like most I was concerned about pain (which was minimal to nonexistent) and what was the process. Everything was clearly explained and what resulted was a set of beautiful “new teeth” and a smile that has restored my confidence and ability to enjoy the foods my old teeth couldn’t have handled! I can’t stop singing Dr. Paul and his staff’s praises —they are totally AWESOME!! I would highly recommend them if you’re in need of a dental practice. 
