Renewing Smiles

Dr.Mark A Kleive, DDS is a cosmetic dentist in Minneapolis who will work closely with you to give you your healthiest, most beautiful smile.

Temporomandibular joint disorder, often referred to as TMD or TMJ, is a disorder of the jaw, jaw joint and connecting muscles and tissues. The syndrome affects the temporomandibular joint (TMJ), the joint on either side of the head that connects the lower jaw to the skull, which is vitally important for everyday activities like chewing, speaking, yawning, and more.

Symptoms of TMJ

The TMJ joint is very complex. In addition to muscles in the jaw, face, and neck, it also involves the bones and cartilage of the joint, as well as numerous blood vessels, nerves, and ligaments. As a result, sufferers of TMD can experience vastly different symptoms, some of which can be confused with earache, neck injury, or other kinds of body strain.

People suffering from TMD may experience:

Headache or migraines
Stiffness or popping in the TMJ joint
A clicking or grinding noise in the TMJ joint when the jaw is moved
Limited mobility in the joint, causing difficulty opening or closing the mouth
Difficulty biting or chewing
Wear or damage to teeth
Pain in the facial muscles, shoulders, and neck
Earache, ringing in the ears, or hearing loss
Pain or tenderness in and around the jaw itself
If problems continue without appropriate TMJ treatment, these symptoms can progress to include chronic headaches and face pain.

Causes of TMD

There are several common triggers for the TMJ disorder, including:

Misalignment in the bite
Orthodontic appliances, such as braces
Stress and emotional tension
Gum chewing or nail biting
Chewing on objects like pens or pencils
Fractures, dislocations, or other injuries
Teeth grinding or clenching the jaw
Systemic diseases; gout, lupus, and fibromyalgia
Sleep disturbances like sleep apnea
Extensive dental procedures causing stress on the joints
Arthritis
Although any of these issues can cause TMJ problems, there isn't always a direct correlation. Some people can have a misalignment of their bite or have high stress levels for years without developing TMJ syndrome, while others suffer from it without dramatic correlation of these triggers.

TMJ Treatment

Depending on the cause of the problem, there are a number of TMJ treatment options available, ranging from lifestyle changes that can prevent the disorder to specific dental therapies. For very extreme cases, surgery may be necessary.

Relaxation and physical exercise: The first and most common TMJ treatment is relaxation and physical exercise, which can help people deal with stress more effectively. This often lessens the frequency and impact of clenching and grinding of the teeth that contributes to a majority of TMJ cases. Eating soft foods, using anti-inflammatory medications like ibuprofen or acetaminophen, and treating the area with heating pads or warm compresses can also be a helpful temporary solution.
Correcting tooth and bite alignment: If symptoms persist, a specifically designed bite splint, or bite leveling orthotic, is often the best initial therapy to improve jaw function and decrease symptoms. Adjustment to the teeth or the bite alignment is sometimes required to correct the problem that initially contributed to the TMJ disorder. Repair to the teeth may also be necessary if there has been wear or grinding on the chewing surfaces. Examples can include the use of dental crowns or veneers to correct the levelness of the bite and restore worn-down teeth,
Surgery: In rare cases, surgery may be required to repair a deteriorating jaw bone (when the cause is osteoarthritis) or correct trauma from an accident that might have misaligned the jaw or injured the facial muscles. Less than five percent of patients need surgery to correct their TMJ disorder.
To find the best treatment approach for TMJ, it's a good idea to see a reputable TMJ dentist who has extensive training and experience in treating TMJ disorders. A highly qualified dentist can help to identify the root of the problem and choose a treatment plan that's conducive to your lifestyle, budget, and desired results. Make sure the dentist you select takes the time to listen to you about your lifestyle and symptoms. Collaboration with your dentist maplewood is necessary to diagnose and implement a plan for an ideal treatment outcome.

Posted by kleiv001 at 7:57 AM | Permalink

Dr.Mark A Kleive, offers Teeth Whitening in St Paul will work closely with you to give you your healthiest, most beautiful smile.

There are many factors that can have an adverse impact on the quality of your smile, from tooth crookedness to discoloration to unsightly gaps. Whatever the cause, a less-than-perfect smile can dramatically affect your self-esteem, personality, and ability to communicate with others.

For many, dental veneers (often referred to as porcelain veneers) provide an ideal solution. Formed from ceramic, these custom-made, eggshell-thin coverings are designed to mimic the look and feel of natural enamel. They are placed over the surface of teeth to conceal chips, gaps, cracks, or other problems that can jeopardize dental health or aesthetics. Dental veneers can provide an easy, painless way to achieve a bright, confident smile.

Problems Addressed by Porcelain Veneers

There are several different conditions that can be quickly and painlessly solved by veneers:

Chipped Teeth: Teeth can chip for a variety of reasons, including stress-induced grinding, an accident or trauma, using your teeth for purposes they are not intended for, or a fracture that causes a gradual weakening. Regardless of the cause, chipped teeth can detract from the appearance of your smile while increasing the risk of discoloration, sensitivity, and decay.
Crooked Teeth: In addition to affecting the appearance of your teeth, crookedness can cause dental pain and inhibit good oral hygiene. Those who leave the problem untreated are more prone to tooth decay, tooth loss, and bad breath. It can also be difficult to chew properly with crooked teeth, increasing the chances of jaw misalignment.
Discolorations: The most obvious effect of discolored teeth (a wearing-down or dulling of surface enamel) is a dirty appearance, creating the implication of poor dental health. Noticeable stains on the surface of your teeth can make you look older than your age, while drawing more attention to other issues, such as gaps and crookedness. Varying degrees of discoloration can be caused by numerous factors:
Genetic predisposition
Prolonged exposure to certain foods or drinks such as coffee or tea
Ingestion of or contact with of certain medications
Smoking cigars or cigarettes
Nerve damage to a tooth during an accident or fall.
Gaps: Anyone who's ever had extra space between their teeth knows that gaps can have a dramatic impact on self-esteem. Those born with gaps often notice the problem worsening with age. They wonder if people are staring at the gap in their teeth or they find themselves reluctant to talk or smile. In addition to affecting your confidence, the condition can also make it difficult to chew or speak.
Misshapen Teeth: Even if you have perfect dental health, just one misshapen tooth can cause your smile to look flawed or unhealthy.
All of the above: Many folks don't have a single dental affliction. A combination of genetics, lifestyle choices, and normal wear and tear can create a set of unique circumstances.
In most cases, depending on the severity of these conditions, smiles can be aesthetically and functionally enhanced with the use of porcelain veneers.

Benefits of Dental Veneers

Porcelain veneers offer a number of advantages to today's dental patients:

A more natural look: With today's enhanced dental technology, ceramic veneers offer a high degree of translucence, making them virtually indistinguishable from your natural teeth.
Custom design and creation: Porcelain veneers are custom-matched to the color of your teeth. If you desire a whiter smile, veneers can be used in conjunction with whitening to create a dazzling smile. Veneers are designed specifically for your mouth, your lifestyle and your individual circumstances.
Quicker results: Unlike straightening with braces, tooth whitening systems, or complex dental bonding, veneers can be applied in just one or two visits, immediately achieving a bright, even smile.
Lower cost: Veneers are typically less expensive than other, multi-step, more complex treatments including surgery.
Long-term protection: In addition to looking good, veneers are durable enough to strengthen weak or damaged teeth, potentially eliminating the need for a bridge, crown, or other, more invasive procedures. Also, if properly maintained, veneers can last several decades.
There are several different options and brands available for dental veneers, such as Lumineers. Before making a decision about what type or brand of veneer is best, contact a cosmetic dentist who is experienced in placing porcelain veneers. Ask the dentist to see examples of their work, such as before and after photographs where porcelain veneers were used. Ask if the dentist offers a no-fee consultation, and never be rushed into making a decision about your smile. You and the dentist should work collaboratively to come up with a treatment that fits your oral health needs, lifestyle and budget.

Posted by kleiv001 at 7:39 AM | Permalink

Dr.Mark A Kleive is a cosmetic dentist offering Teeth Whitening in Minneapolis. He will work closely with you to give you your healthiest, most beautiful smile.

With the earliest known practices recorded from 7000 BC, Dentistry is a profession which has remained socially important throughout the millennia. With very little known about oral health, medicine men and women would invent explanations for dental conditions such as "tooth worms" creating holes in teeth and cause them to decay. With today's technology and studies in the fields of science and medicine, we now have an advanced understanding of tooth decay is and how to take treat it. Those who have straight and healthy teeth, rarely think about their smiles. However, people whose teeth and dental heath are compromised know the embarrassment that dental problems can cause on a daily basis. A Cosmetic Dentist Minneapolis can help you with any dental problems you may be facing.

Cosmetic Dentistry can offer you a variety of solutions to your dental woes. Historically, Cosmetic Dentists were only for high profile celebrities. But advances in dental technology have made these solutions affordable for many people.

If you have silver fillings which make your teeth appear dark and unpleasant, a Cosmetic Dentist can remove the old, dark fillings and replace them with white fillings that will blend in with the natural color of your teeth. Composite resin fillings, also known as white fillings, can also make your teeth look whiter and more appealing when you smile or laugh.

If your teeth are dull and stained from food, drinks, smoking or just have lost their luster with age, consider a teeth whitening procedure. Teeth whitening can be performed through various methods such as laser tooth whitening, in-office systems with a special light activated gel, or through a series of whitening trays. Since tooth whitening is an attractive option to rejuvenate one's smile, people often consider over-the-counter teeth whiteners because they are cheaper. However, these over the counter products lose effectiveness if they aren't followed exactly and often only whiten the teeth only slightly. Some tooth whitening treatments, like the ones offered in malls, dehydrate teeth so they appear whiter, but the results only last for a short period of time. A Cosmetic Dentist's teeth whitening methods are more effective and long lasting with a variety of options you can choose from.

Because some tooth whitening options can cause tooth sensitivity, it is important to talk to your dentist about all the pros and cons of tooth whitening before you choose a treatment option. If your teeth are severely stained or chipped, a dental bonding procedure from a Cosmetic Dentist can help cover and correct unsightly issues. This procedure is usually reserved for those who suffer from significantly discolored teeth.

If you have crooked teeth and would like to assess teeth straightening options, you'll be glad to know you do not have to have harsh metal brackets on your teeth for years. A Cosmetic Dentist can provide you teeth straightening options that will be invisible to others. Invisalign offers clear, plastic aligners which are nearly invisible to the eye when worn. The aligners help shape your teeth and move them to enhance the aesthetics of your smile and the functionality of your bite.

If you have a missing tooth that makes you feel awkward, Cosmetic Dentists can offer several solutions including the use of a dental implant procedure to fill the gap. The artificial tooth is blended to match your surrounding teeth, so it is indistinguishable from the others. If necessary, dental bridges can also be used to fill the gap of missing teeth.

Cosmetic Dentists will evaluate the current condition of your gums and teeth and give you an idea of how to improve both the beauty and functionality of your smile. They can advise you on the length of the procedure as well as the fee, including the cost to your oral health if the problems go unaddressed. For major or multi-step dental procedures, many Cosmetic Dentists offer payment installment plans so you can get the dental treatment you need without worrying. A Cosmetic Dentist will be able to provide you a variety of options so you can start smiling without embarrassment. Broken, stained, chipped, crooked or missing teeth? All those dental problems can be corrected by working collaboratively with a Cosmetic Dentist.

Posted by kleiv001 at 7:28 AM | Permalink

Dr.Mark A Kleive, DDS in St Paul is a cosmetic dentist who will work closely with you to give you your healthiest, most beautiful smile.

Crooked teeth can significantly impact your confidence, oral hygiene, and overall quality of life. In addition to having an adverse effect on your self-image, they can also make it more difficult to brush and floss properly, increasing the chances of tooth decay, bad breath, and gum disease. Crooked teeth can also cause jaw misalignment and prohibit proper chewing.
In the past, braces were the only option for straightening teeth. Although they ultimately got the job done, they also presented many discomforts and inconveniences along the way, subjecting dental patients to a long and painful process. For those with severely misaligned teeth, it could often take several years for braces to correct the problem.
Fortunately, modern dental technology has made it possible to get a straight, even smile without invasive metal or ceramic braces. Invisalign is an innovative teeth aligner made from a clear material that's virtually invisible. This convenient, comfortable solution offers many benefits:
• Confidence: Invisalign aligners are so inconspicuous that most people won't even notice you're wearing them. You'll feel more self-assured and comfortable when interacting with others, smiling and laughing without having to worry about if you have food remnants in your braces.
• Versatility: While braces remain on your teeth permanently until removed by an orthodontist, Invisalign can be conveniently removed at any time. In addition to allowing you to continue to enjoy the food and drinks you love, this also promotes healthy oral hygiene by making it easier to brush and floss.
• Protection: Unlike braces, Invisalign is a non-invasive treatment. Nothing is cemented to your teeth, so there will be no damage to surface enamel or unsightly discolorations. The clear, removable plastic trays are custom-designed to fit over your teeth comfortably and discreetly.
• Results: Invisalign makes it possible for you to get the straight, even smile you've always dreamed of having. There are many types of tooth crowding that can effectively be treated with Invisalign.
• Comfort: Anyone who has ever had braces knows the pain and soreness caused by the metal wires and brackets. With the gentle Invisalign system, the materials are much less abrasive and do not cause irritation to sensitive gums and mouth tissue.
It is important to select a dentist who has advanced training in Temporomandibular Joint Disorder (TMD ). Whenever straightening misaligned teeth, the patient should be educated about how his or her teeth function in harmony with the jaw. With his in-depth knowledge of proper jaw alignment and TMJ, Dr. Mark Kleive is a highly respected Invisalign dentist.
Good candidates for Invisalign are those with mild to moderate tooth crowding or crookedness. People who've had braces when they were younger but whose teeth have shifting slightly are good candidates, especially if they do not want to re-experience traditional orthodontics. In some cases, tooth crookedness can be fixed quickly through other dental procedures such as porcelain veneers.
If you are a good candidate for Invisalign, Dr. Kleive will take impressions of your teeth and design a set of custom aligners to gradually move your teeth into a desirable and comfortable position. Depending on the length of treatment needed, you will wear a pair of aligners at two-week increments. You will see your smile transform gradually and many reach their desired result in less than one year.
See our testimonials to find out how Dr. Kleive has helped his Invisalign patients with their smiles. Contact our office to schedule a free consultation, during which Dr. Kleive will examine your teeth, discuss your options, and help you choose a teeth straightening treatment plan that is compatible with your schedule and lifestyle.

Posted by kleiv001 at 7:12 AM | Permalink

By Mark Kleive, DDS- Cosmetic Dentist in Maplewood, Minneapolis

Your smile is your most important accessory, helping to ensure a favorable impression and conveying warmth and approachability. There is even medical evidence that smiling can help relieve stress, boost well-being, and add years to your life. Unfortunately, many people are reluctant to smile because they're unhappy with the color, orientation, or overall appearance of their teeth.

Dr. Mark Kleive, a highly-respected cosmetic dentist, understands the importance of aesthetics in ensuring a bright, confident smile. If you're embarrassed or self-conscious about your teeth, Dr. Kleive and his team can help you improve your dental health to look and feel happier.

Our Approach
While other top dentists may focus on scheduling as many patients as possible, Dr. Kleive allows plenty of time to focus on each individual. He treats people, not numbers, giving each patient the personal attention and quality of care they deserve.
Rather than trying to sell you the most expensive procedures, Dr. Kleive takes the time to listen to your story and carefully evaluate your symptoms before making a custom recommendation for your unique situation.

What We Consider
Although the health and appearance of your teeth is the most important factor of our treatment, our cosmetic and restorative dentistry practice strives to treat you as a person. Our treatment recommendations are based on:
• Your desired results
• Your available time commitment
• The impact your treatment will have on your everyday life
• Your financial situation
We can design a phased approach over a period of time to accommodate your unique circumstances. In fact, many of our patients prefer this approach because it allows them to be an active participant in their treatment.

Quality & Innovation
We're committed to providing each patient with the highest possible quality of care. As a top dentist in his field, Dr. Kleive has extensive training and experience in both the artistry and science of dentistry. He and his team keep their skills honed through ongoing education and collaboration with some of the industry's most respected professionals.
After a thorough visual examination, we'll use X-rays, physical models of your teeth, and high-resolution photographs to get a clear picture of your dental health. We'll then implement comfortable and effective techniques to help give you the best, brightest smile of your life.

Learn More
Interested in finding out more about how a cosmetic dentist can improve your smile? Not all cosmetic dentists are equal. It is important to choose a dentist who is experienced, passionate and dedicated to his patients. Learn more about Dr. Kleive, see the results his patients have experienced in the Smile Gallery, or contact us to schedule a no-fee consultation.

Posted by kleiv001 at 2:04 AM | Permalink

By Mark A. Kleive, DDS- Dentist in Minneapolis

I am most successful in helping patients move from reactive dentistry to proactive and health-centered dentistry when they have ownership in their current condition. Sometimes it takes months or years to earn the right to care for people, and the tools I use to develop this cooperative relationship by educating and investing the patient in the future of their oral health.

In my career, I have found the use of digital photography to be the most powerful tool to increase awareness and develop a patient’s knowledge and control over their mouth. Over the years, as my photography has improved so, too, has my skill at helping patients move toward better oral health.

With correct photographic technique, nearly every area of a person’s mouth can be clearly viewed. Additionally, a photographic image helps people see things in the way that I see them. During a patient’s exam:
• We show clear pictures of the patient’s mouth
• We talk in non-medial terms
• We show the patient what we see
• We allow them to ask questions and move at their own pace
By doing these things, we find patients are able to finally take an objective look at their mouth.

Some dentists use a still-shot from an intraoral camera which is a small video camera designed for the mouth. However, an image from an intraoral camera generally shows detail of only one tooth. Using a different type of camera, I can show my patients a bigger sections of their teeth (up to the full top or full bottom teeth) to teach them how different areas of their mouths relate to each other.

In working with my patients as a partner, they learn how their mouth works, where they are being successful with their oral heath, and where there is room for improvement.

In recent years, there has been much hype about cosmetic dentistry and covering up problems with quick solutions. I realized early that this mentality did not fit with my temperament or my values.
About Me:
• I do not want to be a salesman.
• I do not want to just cover up problems with visually appealing, but non-functional dentistry.
• I do not want to just tell patients what they “need.”

My role as a dentist has become clearer because I want to be a partner with my patients, a facilitator. I want to create possibilities for my patients and sit side-by-side as we put together a plan that meets their wants, desires, and values. By using digital photographs, we can easily take a tour of their mouth together and create a plan that meets their objectives.

I find that a majority of my patients are really like my use of photography. I believe it is important to let my patients guide their own discovery process in a way that honors their learning style.

If you would like to learn more about how we use digital photography in our practice, or schedule a no-fee consultation, contact us by email contact us by email or by telephone at (651) 730-7645.

Posted by kleiv001 at 1:42 AM | Permalink