Request Request Appointment Like Us Like us on Facebook Reviews Read Our Reviews Call Give us a Call Map View our Map

Jason D. Voto, DDS Blog

January 7, 2015

How Important is Bruxism Treatment? Stop Teeth Grinding in Owasso, OK

147352006Bruxism is an oral health condition that is characterized by the involuntary grinding of the teeth, usually at night while the patient is asleep. At Drake & Voto Family and Cosmetic Dentistry in Owasso, OK, Dr. Gene Drake and Dr. Jayson Voto offer a comprehensive menu of general and preventive dentistry solutions, including treatment for bruxism and disorders of the temporomandibular joint (TMJ).

Saving Your Smile with Bruxism Treatment

Persistent teeth grinding causes a variety of undesirable oral health effects and the discomfort it causes can interfere with your daily life in a number of ways. Patients with untreated bruxism frequently suffer from one or more of the following symptoms:

  • Teeth that appear shorter and flatter over time
  • Indentations from teeth on the tongue or cheek lining
  • Stiffness and/or tenderness of the jaw
  • Chronic headaches that begin in the temple area
  • Teeth that are worn down, exposing internal tooth structure beneath enamel
  • Pain in the neck, head, shoulders, or upper back

Though you are most likely not bothered by your own teeth grinding or jaw clenching at night, there’s a possibility that your sleep partner is. In many cases, the extreme force with which the teeth grind together causes an audible scraping sound that can disrupt the sleep of others in the room. A custom oral appliance – often referred to simply as a nightguard – can be fitted to your unique dentition to reposition your jaw and cushion your teeth while you sleep. Most patients report relief from their bruxism symptoms within just a few nights of wearing their nightguard.

Schedule Your Bruxism Consultation Today

Do you suspect that you or your partner may be suffering from nighttime teeth grinding? Perhaps you often awaken in the morning with pain in your jaw or your head. Why wait another day to get the relief you need and deserve? Our team genuinely wants to help you get out of the daily grind and say goodbye to the pain and damage associated with bruxism. Contact us today to schedule your consultation with Drs. Drake and Voto in Owasso, OK. Our family-friendly, high-tech office warmly welcomes patients from throughout communities in the surrounding areas of Collinsville, Sperry, Tulsa, Skiatook, Claremore, and beyond.

December 15, 2014

Ring in the New Year with a New Smile with Porcelain Veneers in Owasso, OK

1666691562014 is quickly coming to a close, and people from all over the world are gearing up to celebrate the New Year with promising resolutions to improve themselves and their lives. This year, make your resolutions count with cosmetic dentistry solutions from Drake & Voto Family and Cosmetic Dentistry in Owasso, OK. Dr. Gene Drake and Dr. Jayson Voto specialize in helping men and women just like you find confidence in their appearance with cosmetic dental solutions, including porcelain veneers.

How Can Porcelain Veneers Help Me?

Porcelain veneers are customized, ultra-thin layers of dental porcelain that are bonded securely to the front surfaces of your teeth. They are highly stain-resistant and durable, and their natural look promotes a beautiful smile you can feel proud to show off to the world. Porcelain veneers even reflect light in the same way that tooth enamel does, so you can rest assured in the knowledge that your smile looks radiantly natural. Veneers are capable of correcting a wide variety of common cosmetic flaws, including:

  • Deep staining that is resistant to professional teeth whitening treatments
  • Chips and cracks in enamel
  • Uneven spacing or gaps between teeth
  • Teeth that appear too short or stubby
  • Teeth that are misshapen or too small in relation to other teeth
  • Crowding and moderate misalignment

We truly can’t wait to welcome you to our practice and to show you how much of a difference a simple solution like porcelain veneers can make for you! Welcoming 2015 with a Smile A consultation with our friendly, experienced doctors and caring staff will help to determine your candidacy for porcelain veneers and other cosmetic dentistry solutions. Most people who are in good oral health are excellent candidates for these transformative and affordable treatments. Contact us today to schedule your appointment with Drs. Drake and Voto, and discover the difference that our expertise and cutting-edge technology can make in your smile and in your sense of self-confidence. Our state-of-the-art dental practice in Owasso, OK warmly welcomes patients from throughout the surrounding areas, including Sperry, Collinsville, Claremore, Tulsa, Skiatook, and more.

November 20, 2014

Invisalign for Busy Professionals in Owasso, OK

122573542If you’re a busy professional, the last thing you want to do is wear bulky metal braces for the next two years to straighten your teeth. But you may also realize that having a bright, straight, confident smile is essential to succeed in a competitive business arena. So how can you get that dazzling “Hollywood” smile without the inconvenience of traditional braces? The answer is adult orthodontic treatment with Invisalign.

Invisalign clear aligners are made especially for the orthodontic and esthetic needs of busy adults. If you want to straighten your teeth quickly and discretely, make an appointment with Drake & Voto today for your adult orthodontic consultation. Remember, it’s never too late to straighten your teeth. Don’t put off the orthodontic treatment you need any longer. Drake & Voto Family and Cosmetic Dentistry has helped many patients achieve the smile of their dreams throughout Owasso, and they can help you too. Drake & Voto proudly serve families in Owasso, OK, Skiatook, Sperry, Tulsa, Claremore, Collinsville, and the surrounding communities.

What is Invisalign?

A custom set of clear aligners exchanged every few weeks as your treatment progresses.

The Benefits of Invisalign in Owasso, OK

  • Discretion: The nearly invisible clear aligners typically go unnoticed by friends and co workers.
  • Low Maintenance: The aligners are easily removable for cleaning and eating, so you don’t have to worry about restricting your diet. They also will not interfere with your oral hygiene routine.
  • Custom Fitted: The aligners are comfortable because they are precisely measured to your unique mouth shape.
  • Pain Free Checkups: With clear aligners there are no painful adjustments.  As your treatment progresses you simply exchange each set of aligners at the dentist office.

Invisalign Appointments in Owasso, OK

There’s no magic wand that will automatically fix orthodontic issues like crowded, turned, spaced, or misaligned teeth. However, there are several fast, discrete, and efficient orthodontic treatments available. If time, cost, and convenience matter; make an appointment with Drs. Drake and Voto today.  Their friendly team will be happy to discuss Invisalign and your adult orthodontic options. Drake & Voto Family and Cosmetic Dentistry serves patients throughout Owasso, OK, Skiatook, Sperry, Tulsa, Claremore, Collinsville, and nearby areas.

 

October 20, 2014

You can be Pain-free with TMJ Treatment in Owasso, OK

167121308Pain is part of the body’s messaging system. When you feel pain, chances are something is wrong. And if that pain affects your head, face or jaw, then this may indicate a condition called temporomandibular joint disorder, or TMD. At Drake & Voto Family and Cosmetic Dentistry in Owasso, OK, Dr. Gene Drake and Dr. Jayson Voto specialize in TMJ treatment to eliminate your pain, so you can work, play and sleep in peace.

What is TMJ?

Your temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is located at the back of the jawline just in front of your ears. The American Dental Association (ADA) calls this joint one of the body’s most complex and one of the most frequently used joints. Every time you talk, chew, smile, laugh, or yawn, this joint is working.

What Causes TMJ Disorder?

TMJ disorder has a number of causes including trauma or injury to the jaw. The most common cause, however, is usually a bite problem that affects this joint. Teeth may become worn as a result of aging, teeth grinding and clenching, or any activity outside of normal function. Uneven surfaces that then result on the teeth interfere with the bite and jaw closure. People with TMJ disorder may experience a sore jaw; clicking or popping when the jaw is opened or closed; headaches; an earache without infection; and other painful symptoms around the jaw, face and head.

How is TMJ Disorder Treated?

In most cases, TMJ disorder can be remedied with an oral appliance, or mouth guard. Dr. Drake or Dr. Voto will assess your bite and likely take x-rays. Then, if they determine that a mouth guard is the solution, impressions will be taken of your teeth for your custom-fitted mouth guard. The mouth guard will reduce the stress on your jaw and leave you feeling more comfort and less pain.

Call Our Office Today

If you suspect that your jaw pain might be due to TMJ disorder, make an appointment today with Drake & Voto in Owasso, OK. We also conveniently serve patients in Claremore, Sperry, Collinsville, Tulsa, Skiatook and surrounding communities.

 

September 20, 2014

Trends in Cosmetic Dentistry Procedures

botox and juvedermHealthy teeth and gums are an essential part of your overall health. Today, healthy and beautiful smiles go hand in hand. If you are concerned with the color, shape, spacing or alignment of your teeth, we recommend that you consider undergoing a cosmetic dental procedure. Make an appointment with Drs. Drake and Voto to learn more about getting the smile you’ve always wanted. Drake and Voto Family and Cosmetic Dentistry proudly serves patients throughout Owasso, OK, Skiatook, Sperry, Tulsa, Claremore, Collinsville and surrounding communities.

  • Teeth WhiteningTeeth whitening is perhaps the most commonly recommended cosmetic dentistry procedure. Professional teeth bleaching can enhance the brightness and color of your smile.
  • Dental Veneers– These are composite or porcelain laminates that are adhesively bonded to the surface of a tooth to correct and repair chips and cracks. They can dramatically improve a worn appearance or severe tooth discoloration. Veneers may also appropriate if you have gaps between your teeth or if you have not had success with teeth whitening.
  • Braces– Orthodontics can improve the appearance of teeth in children and adults who have misalignment or teeth with wide gaps. Products like Invisalign are nearly invisible and exceedingly more comfortable and convenient than traditional braces.
  • Inlays/Onlays– Also known as indirect fillings, inlays and onlays made from porcelain or composite materials are a long-lasting yet cosmetic way to provide a “filling” to teeth with tooth decay or similar structural damage.
  • Composite Bonding– Chipped, broken, discolored or decayed teeth can be repaired or corrected with composite bonding. A dental composite material with the look of enamel and dentin is applied into the cavity or onto the surface of a tooth, sculpted into shape, contoured, and hardened with a high-intensity light.
  • Dental Implants– With a 95% success rate, dental implants are tiny titanium artificial tooth root replacements that are used as a part of prosthetic dentistry to compensate for tooth loss. A custom restoration is then affixed to the implant to complete your smile.
  • Gum-lifts (gingivectomy)– This procedure involves the removal of gum tissue to make the teeth appear longer and the gum line more even. An uneven gum line can make the teeth appear to have different lengths, which detracts from an attractive smile.
  • Smile Makeover– Typically one or more cosmetic dentistry procedures — such as dental veneers, dental implants, gingival sculpting and teeth whitening — may be required for several teeth in both the upper and lower arches in order to achieve the perfect smile.
  • Botox and JuvedermBotox is a safe and effective FDA-approved medication most commonly used to eliminate facial wrinkles and frown lines by decreasing the movement of muscles in troubled areas. It’s minimally invasive and results can typically last anywhere from 3-5 months on average. Juvederm is a smooth gel that is made up of hyaluronic acid which, when injected underneath the skin, can add volume and reduce the appearance of facial wrinkles and folds. Not only will Botox and Juvéderm enhance your facial features, but they can also be used to inhibit jaw clenching. The injections relax certain facial muscles which stop the clenching and associated pain.

Cosmetic Dentistry in Owasso, OK

Cosmetic dentistry can provide aesthetic and restorative benefits. Technological advancements in natural-looking, tooth-colored dental materials make today’s cosmetic dentistry procedures more long-lasting and durable than ever before. To explore what can be done to enhance your smile, make an appointment with Drake and Voto Family and Cosmetic Dentistry today. Dr. Drake and Dr. Voto proudly serve patients in Owasso, OK and the communities of Skiatook, Sperry, Tulsa, Claremore and Collinsville.

August 20, 2014

Brighten Your Smile with Teeth Whitening

178597379

Having a smile that is bright and white is something that many people strive for. A smile that someone can be proud of is wanted by many, as a beautiful smile makes a lasting, positive impression. Unfortunately, life has a way of leaving evidence of its existence, and our smiles are no different. Over the years, our smiles accumulate stains, affecting the overall aesthetic and brightness of our smiles. You may have tried traditional over the counter treatments to brighten your smile, but may have gotten results you were not happy with, or no results whatsoever. Thankfully, Dr. Gene Drake and Dr. Jayson Voto are able to whiten the smiles of their patients with ease with teeth whitening.

There are multiple factors that play a hand in dulling our smiles. Things such as coffee, wine, tea, tobacco products, certain medications, and even genetics all play a role in our smiles losing its luminescence. Though you may feel as though there is nothing you can do, our doctors are trained and experienced in whitening smiles, and there is no doubt they will be able to whiten yours!

We offer at-home whitening to our patients, which is very convenient for their busy schedules. We will make custom whitening trays just for you, fitting your smile like a glove. This ensures amazing results, and makes your treatment personalized. We will also supply you with the professional grade whitening gel. All you have to do is fill the trays with the whitening gel, and wear them for an allotted amount of time each day. After about two weeks, you will see the full results.

We also offer in-office whitening to our patients, being able to whiten their smiles in as little as an hour. Putting a whitening gel on your smile, as you sit and wait, your smile is brightened up to ten shades! If you would like our doctors to help whiten your smile using teeth whitening, visit our Owasso, OK dental office.

If you are curious as to how teeth whitening is able to give you flawless a beautiful smile, contact our office today to schedule your appointment with our caring, experienced team. Our doctors and staff proudly serve families from throughout the Owasso area, as well as the surrounding communities in Skiatook, Sperry, Tulsa, Claremore, Collinsville, and beyond!

July 18, 2014

Understanding and Treating Periodontal Disease in Owasso, OK

Shutterstock Health Body PerioGum disease is one of the most common oral health problems in our country today, and it is the leading cause of tooth loss in adults. At Drake & Voto Family and Cosmetic Dentistry, Dr. Gene Drake and Dr. Jayson Voto provide patients from throughout the Owasso, OK area with comprehensive general and preventive care, including periodontal disease therapy.

The Importance of Gum Disease Treatment

While gum disease is most widely known for its ability to contribute to bad breath and even tooth loss, the fact is that there are a variety of other health issues directly connected to periodontal disease. The bacteria that cause the inflammation of gingival tissue can travel through the bloodstream to other areas of the body, wreaking havoc as they do. Scientific and medical research have proven a direct correlation between untreated periodontal disease and the following systemic health conditions:

  • Coronary artery disease
  • Respiratory illness
  • Dementia/Alzheimer’s disease
  • Rheumatoid arthritis
  • Stroke
  • Heart attack
  • Complications in patients with diabetes
  • Low birth weight and premature birth in mothers with gum disease
  • High blood pressure (hypertension)

Fortunately, timely treatment of periodontal disease can help to drastically diminish your chances of suffering from these potentially serious health problems. Our team wants to help you obtain the gorgeous, healthy smile of your dreams, and we’re always happy to answer any questions you may have regarding periodontal therapy and our other preventive dentistry services.

Schedule Your Consultation Today

Do you experience gum pain or sensitivity when you brush and/or floss your teeth? Perhaps your gums are swollen and bleed on a regular basis. If you suffer from any of the common symptoms of gum disease, the time to act is now before the condition worsens. Contact our office in Owasso, OK today to schedule your appointment with Dr. Drake and Dr. Voto, and begin your journey toward a healthier mouth and a healthier body overall. Our state-of-the-art dental practice proudly serves families from throughout the surrounding areas as well, including Tulsa, Collinsville, Sperry, Skiatook, Claremore, and more.

June 18, 2014

Have Flawless Skin for Summer with Botox and Juvéderm!

shutterstock_113720950

With summer just around the corner, one of the main things people are doing right now is making sure they look the best they can. When people think about summer, they think about outdoor barbeques, beaches, pool parties, and loads of fun. Many people are making sure they have their swimsuit body in the making and getting their hair done, but what a lot of people may not consider is revamping their skin. There is no doubt you will meet new people and reconnect with old friends and family during the summer season, and you want to make sure you look your best. Because Dr. Gene Drake and Dr. Jayson Voto understands this, they are able to offer Botox and Juvéderm to their patients.

Botox is used to treat the moderate to severe frown lines between your eyebrows. Botox’s base is a purified protein, and it reduces the level of the muscle’s activity. When injected into the skin, the lines smooth out, giving you a perfect, smooth appearance. The results can last up to four months, and you can maintain the procedure for constant magazine-ready skin. One of the amazing things about Botox that many people may not know about is that it is an FDA approved treatment for TMJ dysfunction as well as chronic migraines. This works because Botox is able to relax the frayed nerves in your face as well as relieve muscle tension. Juvéderm tackles your smile lines, also known as the parentheses around your mouth. Juvéderm adds volume to the skin, smoothing it over. Juvéderm is also able to be injected in the lips, giving you the full, luscious smile you have always wanted. Juvéderm’s results can last up to a year, something to definitely smile about this summer.

The great thing about Botox and Juvéderm is that they only take minutes out of your day! It is not invasive, and requires no anesthesia. In the long run, spending only a few minutes to change the look of your skin for months does not seem like much of a sacrifice! Let our doctors not only change your smile, but your skin, and you will leave looking like new, just in time for summer!

If you are curious as to how Botox and Juvéderm are able to give you flawless skin this summer, contact our office today to schedule your appointment with our caring, experienced team. Our doctors and staff proudly serve families from throughout the Owasso area, as well as the surrounding communities in Skiatook, Sperry, Tulsa, Claremore, Collinsville, and beyond!

May 23, 2014

What is Plaque? Helpful Information from Drake & Voto Family and Cosmetic Dentistry

Shutterstock FlossingYou hear a lot about plaque in toothpaste commercials on television, but what is it, really? How does it affect your oral health? At Drake & Voto Family and Cosmetic Dentistry in Owasso, OK, Dr. Gene Drake and Dr. Jayson Voto provide patients with a variety of general dentistry services, including comprehensive cleanings to keep plaque, cavities, and other problems at bay.

Understanding Plaque and Bacteria

Plaque is a sticky substance that gradually builds up on the surfaces of your teeth and gums, harboring millions of acid-producing bacteria. When not properly removed during brushing or flossing, this bacteria causes dental caries, or cavities, in your tooth enamel.

Failure to remove plaque from all surfaces of the teeth can lead to the development of tartar along the gum line, a major factor in periodontal disease. More commonly referred to simply as gum disease, this widespread oral health condition affects three out of four American adults and can lead to a variety of health problems when left untreated. In fact, gum disease has even been linked to an increased risk for heart disease, some forms of cancer, dementia, and complications during pregnancy.

Fortunately, routine general dentistry visits to Drake & Voto Family and Cosmetic Dentistry – in conjunction with a daily brushing and flossing regimen at home – can help protect your teeth and gums from plaque and tartar buildup.

Quality General Dentistry Services for Families in Owasso

If it has been more than six months since your last routine checkup and cleaning at Drake & Voto Family and Cosmetic Dentistry, contact our office today to schedule your appointment with our caring, experienced team. Our doctors and staff proudly serve families from throughout the Owasso area as well as surrounding communities in Skiatook, Sperry, Tulsa, Claremore, Collinsville, and beyond. We can’t wait to show you how our commitment to quality dental care can help you achieve your healthiest, most beautiful smile.

April 13, 2014

Do I Have a Dental Emergency? Vital Tips from Drake & Voto Family and Cosmetic Dentistry

Shutterstock Mouth PainTry as we might to avoid emergencies, they do occur from time to time. Knowing what to do to address an unexpected dental emergency ahead of time is key to ensuring a favorable outcome. At Drake & Voto Family and Cosmetic Dentistry in Owasso, OK, Dr. Gene Drake and Dr. Jayson Voto offer same-day emergency dental services so you’ll never have to wait to receive the urgent care you need.

What is a Dental Emergency?

While every patient is unique and each set of circumstances is bound to be different, there are a few universal situations that can be aptly called dental emergencies. These include the following:

  • Severe pain that does not subside
  • Loose or lost filling or crown
  • Chipped or broken tooth
  • Teeth that are knocked out or loosened by impact
  • An abscess
  • Bleeding within the mouth

When you or a member of your family suffers from an injury to the teeth, gums, tongue, or soft tissues of the mouth, you want to be sure that you receive quick, caring service from a professional with experience in all aspects of dentistry. That’s where Drs. Drake and Voto come in to help, assuring you that you’re being treated to only the best care available when you need it most.

Emergency Dental Care for Your Entire Family

If you or someone in your family has suffered any of the injuries listed above, or you’d like to know more about what constitutes as a dental emergency, contact our office in Owasso, OK and speak to our caring, compassionate team. From our family-friendly, conveniently located office, we also warmly welcome patients from communities in the surrounding areas, including Collinsville, Skiatook, Tulsa, Sperry, Claremore, and beyond.

« Newer PostsOlder Posts »