COSMETIC DENTISTRY
This can be anything done to correct imperfections in the appearance of
the mouth. Anyone who is unhappy with their smile can have it fixed. The
upper teeth show, usually, only 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 as well as regularity of the teeth are the characteristics that
give the overall appearance. Any of these can be repaired to give a
stunning look to the mouth.
We offer a wide variety of cosmetic options. Some of these options are
whitening, smile design, recontouring of the shape of the teeth,
veneers, bonding, and all ceramic/porcelain crowns. Click
HERE to learn more.
WHITENING - INCLUDING Zoom!
This is the procedure of making teeth whiter, and therefore more
attractive. Our office uses two methods: Zoom! and passive tray
whitening.
Zoom! is a revolutionary tooth whitening procedure. It's safe effective
and fast, very fast. In just over an hour, your teeth will be
dramatically whiter. The convenience of Zoom! in comparison to days of
using strips or wearing trays makes it the perfect choice for the busy
individual. The Zoom! Whitening procedure is simple. It begins with a
short preparation to isolate your lips and gums. The clinician then
applies the proprietary Zoom! whitening gel that is activated by a
specially designed light. Teeth typically become at least six to ten
shades whiter, sometimes more. A fluoride treatment completes the
procedure. You'll be amazed with the results. In most cases, teeth get
even whiter the first few days after the procedure. Trays with gel are
recommended afterward for maximum whitening and maintenance.
The tray method involves having impressions taken from which laboratory
fabricated custom vinyl trays are made. A carbamide peroxide gel is
placed in these trays and the trays with gel are worn for about 1- 3
hours, or overnight. The entire process takes 3-4 weeks of daily use.
Three different strengths of gel may be used, however the higher the
strength the greater the likelihood of reactions or tooth sensitivity.
The tray method is recommended for badly stained teeth, such as
tetracycline staining, and it may take several months of use to see
significant color improvement. For maintenance of whitened teeth the
trays should be used every several months.
VENEERS
Veneers are a dental procedure in which a covering is placed over the
outside (visible area) of the tooth. Veneers are usually only done to
the part of the teeth that are visible when talking or smiling. The
procedure can be direct or indirect.
The direct technique usually involves placing composite resin on the
outside of the tooth using bonding. This method is usually referred to
as bonding.
The indirect technique usually involves two appointments because the
veneers will be fabricated at a dental laboratory. At the first
appointment the teeth are prepared, impressions taken, and the teeth are
given a
temporary covering. In two to three 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 esthetic.
The advantage of veneers versus crowns is that much less tooth material
is removed, and the procedure is generally less uncomfortable. Veneers
are recommended for teeth that have large fillings or little tooth
structure.
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