Cosmetic Dentistry
Cosmetic dentistry is generally used to refer to any dental work that improves the appearance of teeth, gums and/or bite. It primarily focuses on improvement in dental aesthetics in color, position, shape, size, alignment and overall smile appearance.
Tooth Shaping & Bonding :
Bonding is the application of a tooth-colored composite resin (plastic) to repair a decayed, chipped, fractured, discolored tooth, to make teeth appear longer, and as a cosmetic alternative to amalgam fillings. Bonding can be done in a single visit to your dentist. Bonding is among the easiest and least expensive cosmetic dental procedure. The composite resin used in bonding can be shaped and polished to match the surrounding teeth. Most often, bonding is used for cosmetic purposes to improve the appearance of a discolored or chipped tooth. It also can be used to close spaces between teeth, to make teeth look longer or to change the shape or color of teeth. Sometimes bonding is used as a cosmetic alternative to fillings, or to protect a portion of the tooth's root that has been exposed because of gum recession.
Porcelain Veneers :
Dental veneers are a shell or layer of tooth-colored porcelain placed over the facial surfaces of teeth to correct worn tooth enamel, uneven tooth alignment or spacing, discoloration, and chips or cracks. Although dental veneers fall into the category of cosmetic dentistry (because they create bright, white smiles with beautifully aligned, shapely teeth), they also protect the surface of damaged teeth and may eliminate the need for more extensive treatments. Other benefits of veneers include durability, an improved smile appearance and the need for little-to-no removal of tooth structure compared to crowns. Porcelain is the most appropriate and long lasting material for dental veneers. The removal of any natural tooth structure is permanent, so dentists today prefer to offer patients the most minimally invasive options first. If your natural teeth are functionally and esthetically adequate, dental veneers may not be an appropriate treatment for you. Veneers do have the added benefits of longevity and a proven ability to enhance the appearance of the mouth, smile and other facial features that are better supported by properly shaped teeth. Porcelain dental veneers may require the "shaping" or "prepping" of all teeth being treated. Therefore, some cosmetic dentists first recommend teeth whitening to people with mildly discolored teeth who want a whiter smile because it’s the least invasive cosmetic dentistry option . If crooked teeth or alignment issues are involved, whitening also may be combined with orthodontic treatments. To get your customized treatment plan on how you can achieve a flawlessly beautiful smile, schedule your consultation today!
Tooth Whitening :
Teeth whitening is a popular procedure to make your teeth whiter and brighter, and therefore more attractive. Bleaching can be used to whiten stained and discolored teeth, or simply to enhance a dull smile. Either way, teeth whitening is a safe and relatively painless procedure for most patients. Whitening comes in strips, trays, or in-office procedures. We offer a wide variety of options for you at our practice. In-office bleaching procedures are ideal if you want immediate results. The whole process takes about an hour, taking little time out of busy lives. A protective gel is applied to your gums to protect the soft tissue. Then a special light-activated gel is applied to your teeth and light or laser is used to enhance the action of the agent. Finally, the patient receives a take-home gel and instructions to keep the smile bright. The result is dramatically whiter teeth that will last for years. Take home tray whitening is a less-expensive and convenient at-home whitening treatment. The results are more gradual. An impression is taken at the dentist's office in order to create a customized clear tray. Trays are generally ready within a few days, depending, and the patient must follow instructions for how to apply the gel in the trays and how often to use it. Maximum whitening results and a dazzling smile are achieved at the end of the set treatment period. An occasional treatment can be used to maintain the new smile. Whitening strips can be available at the local store or at dental practices. Your dentist will have the best recommendations for your needs. Ask about our whitening options! Please consult us about use of over-the-counter whitening treatments.
