There’s both science and art behind dentistry.
Just as Leonardo da Vinci used his fingers, it's believed, to smear layers of thin glaze to achieve his trademark smoky effect—the secret behind Mona Lisa's smile—on some level, Dr. Darcy Murphy strives for the same priceless result; after all, Queen’s Park Dental is in the profession of creating beautiful enduring smiles, too.
Advanced technologies in dentistry brings science to the forefront, like the new equipment at Queen’s Park Dental, for example, the CBCT 3D scanner, which helps Murphy plan a patient’s implants, examine cracked teeth or inspect previous root canals, areas a traditional X-ray doesn’t reveal.
On the other hand, there’s an artistry in creating unique and individual smile designs for every patient, something Murphy can achieve either with cosmetic dentistry (such as porcelain veneers and tooth whitening, among other dental services available) or with Invisalign, an alternative to braces for those looking to straighten their teeth more comfortably and discreetly.
If you’re suffering from an overbite, underbite, protruding teeth, gapped or crowded teeth, just to name a few issues, you can correct your bite and restore your smile’s full potential with Invisalign.
Invisalign procedure
“Not everyone is a good candidate for Invisalign—but most are—and it all depends on your jaw and teeth,” says Murphy, who is a general dentist and owner at Queen’s Park Dental.
“It’s all about aligning your teeth, so when your upper and lower jaw come together properly, your bite is balanced. Generally, the best candidates are adults and older teens, who have healthy teeth and gums.”
Every smile is different and every plan and course of treatment is completely unique.
“The first step is to come in for a complimentary consultation,” says Murphy. “Get assessed to see if you’re a suitable candidate, if not, you may wish to get traditional braces.”
After the necessary X-rays and impressions are taken, and a digital image is created, Murphy will map out a treatment plan and show you how your teeth will move with each set of aligners.
“You’ll receive a series of clear aligner trays, say 25 trays on average, customized to move your teeth in slight increments,” explains Murphy. “Each aligner is precisely manufactured and calibrated to fit your mouth at each stage of treatment.”
The aligners are virtually pain free; however, you may experience some minor discomfort at first while you get used to them and the slight pressure. They’re made of BPA-free plastic and won’t irritate your cheeks or gums.
“You should wear the aligners for 21 to 22 hours a day, taking them out only to eat, brush and floss,” advises Murphy. “You’ll change to a new custom aligner once a week as your teeth gradually move.”
After your treatments, you’ll wear a retainer full-time for three months, and after that, just at nighttime, according to Murphy.
“The majority of my cases take between six to twelve months, basically 90% are treated within a year, not like three or six years like it used to be.”
Queen’s Park Dental offers a payment plan to those without dental insurance. “At $4,188, our price is what sets us apart,” he says. “Most general dental offices charge anywhere from $5,000 and $6,000.”
Invisalign is a great option for many patients, and makes orthodontic treatment easier on you.
New location, modernized office
The new office at 902 Quayside Drive opened in April 2022, although the practice was established over 40 years ago. Murphy took over in 2009 and has been practicing dentistry in New Westminster since 2004.
Together with Dr. Lan Li and their team of certified dental assistants and dental hygienists, office manager and receptionists, they provide each patient with the utmost professional care, in a comfortable, friendly and relaxed environment.
If you find yourself feeling anxious, Murphy’s golden doodle, Lucy—a therapy dog—is onsite most Fridays for cuddles.
“We’re all excited to be in the new clinic and really enjoy being in New Westminster,” says Murphy. “Any patient that comes in, we treat like a family member.”
For more information and to book your consultation, visit Queensparkdental.ca.
