Cosmetic Dentistry Services
Cosmetic Dentistry is the art of correcting imperfections in the appearance of your smile. Only the upper teeth usually show when smiling, while the lower teeth remain hidden. This is reversed when talking, with the upper teeth remaining hidden while the lower teeth show. The color, alignment, spacing, and symmetry of the teeth are the characteristics that influence your smile. Most of these irregularities can be improved to allow patients to have confidence in their smiles.
We offer a wide variety of cosmetic options. Some of these options are whitening, smile design, re-contouring of the shape of the teeth, veneers, bonding, and all ceramic/porcelain crowns.
Teeth Whitening
This is the procedure of making teeth whiter, and therefore more attractive. Our office uses a couple of methods: in-office bleaching, custom tray whitening, and prescription-strength bleaching material. All of these methods are effective; therefore, we will be able to discuss the right treatment for you. Current literature also states that bleaching with any of these methods is safe and does not affect the enamel’s integrity. With all methods of bleaching, there is a risk of post-treatment sensitivity. There are many ways that we can recommend to decrease sensitivity. We encourage our patients to call at the first sign of sensitivity so that we can help.
In-Office Bleaching
In-office bleaching (otherwise known as laser bleaching) is a revolutionary tooth-whitening procedure. Our team exclusively uses the POLA Office Plus bleaching system. We chose POLA Office Plus for their extensive research and beautiful, predictable results. It is the fastest way to bleach teeth. After an initial two-week, take-home tray phase, the in-office phase of treatment can begin. Research has shown that this initial take-home phase allows us to control our results and monitor sensitivity. The in-office whitening procedure is simple. It begins with a short preparation to isolate your lips and gums. The clinician then applies a whitening gel. The use of a light has been found not to be more effective for bleaching, and the heat from the light can cause increased tooth sensitivity. Teeth typically become at least six shades whiter. A fluoride treatment completes the procedure, to help reduce the chance of sensitivity. Trays with gel are required afterward, for maximum whitening and maintenance. For those patients who have a history of tooth sensitivity, this method would not be recommended.
Take-Home Tray Whitening
The tray method involves having impressions made of your upper and lower teeth. Casts will be made and we will fabricate custom vinyl trays. A very small amount of a carbamide peroxide gel is placed in these trays. The trays are then worn for about 3 hours, or overnight. The entire process takes 2-4 weeks, depending on the severity of the stains and tooth sensitivity. The tray method is also recommended for badly-stained teeth, such as tetracycline staining. It may take several months of use to see significant color improvements. For maintenance of whitened teeth, the trays should be used every few months.
When comparing these methods, the end results are the same. With the in-office bleaching method, you get a jump start on your bleaching. The tray method is about half the cost of the in-office method and there is usually less post-treatment sensitivity.
Veneers
Veneers are thin porcelain or resin coverings that are bonded to the outside (visible area) of the tooth. Veneers are usually only done to the parts of the teeth that are visible when talking or smiling. The procedure can be either direct or indirect. Both methods take extensive planning, which often includes diagnostic cast, wax-ups, and smile design. Ultimately, we want you to be happy with your new smile.
The indirect technique usually involves two appointments, because the veneers are fabricated at a dental laboratory. At the first appointment, the teeth are prepared, impressions taken, and the teeth are given a temporary covering. In three or four weeks, the veneers are back from the laboratory, the temporaries are removed, and the veneers are bonded to the teeth. The laboratory-fabricated veneers are usually made using porcelain or pressed ceramic, and are very aesthetically appealing.
The direct technique usually involves placing composite resin on the outside of the tooth using multiple shades of resin to get the desired color. This method is generally referred to as bonding. The direct technique can be completed in one appointment.
Crowns
Crowns, sometimes called caps, can be used to restore badly damaged teeth when there is not enough good tooth enamel remaining to hold a filling. Modern porcelains can be used to restore your teeth to their original form, function, and beauty.
Fillings
Fillings don’t have to be metal anymore. New generation tooth-colored materials are an excellent alternative when we need to repair a cavity or replace old silver fillings. Because they are chemically bonded to the tooth enamel, these newer fillings not only look better, but can also improve strength.