Cosmetic Dentistry

Cosmetic dentistry includes procedures correct imperfections or enhance the appearance of the mouth.  Tooth color, alignment, spacing as well as regularity of the teeth are the characteristics that give the overall appearance.  Any of these can be enhanced to provide a stunning new smile.

WHITENING

Tooth whitening is a popular procedure to make teeth whiter and brighter, and therefore more attractive. Bleaching can be used to whitening stained and discolored teeth, or simply to enhance a dull smile.  Either way, tooth whitening is a safe and relatively painless procedure ideal for most patients.  Our office offers two methods of whitening: in-office whitening and tray whitening.

In-office whitening is an ideal for anyone wanting immediate results.  The entire process takes place in our office in about an hour, making it the perfect choice for busy individuals.  In this process, a protective gel is applied to your gums to protect the soft tissue.  A special light-activated gel is then applied to your teeth and a special light or laser is used to enhance the action of the agent - making your teeth whiter and brighter.  As a final step, we take impressions of your teeth to create custom trays for at home touch-ups, and give you instructions for keeping your smile bright. The result is dramatically whiter teeth that will last for years.

Tray whitening is a less expensive whitening treatment you can use while in the comfort of your own home.  We will first take an impression of your mouth to create a customized clear whitening trays for you to wear.  Within a few days your trays will be ready to be picked up and we will show you how to apply the special bleaching material to the trays.  The whitening gel trays should be worn 30-60 minutes up to twice a day.  At the end of this period, you will see maximum whitening results that are nothing short of dazzling.  Occasional treatment can be used at your convenience to maintain your new smile.

ORTHODONTICS

Orthodontics is the art of using appliances to straighten and align teeth.  Most commonly it involves the use of braces to move teeth into proper positing. In this method, brackets are bonded to the teeth and arch wires are threaded through the brackets. The arch wires act as a track, guiding each tooth to its proper position. There are several types of orthodontic braces available to patients, including traditional metal braces, ceramic "tooth colored" braces, as well as clear plastic braces.

Damon Bracket -- The Damon bracket uses a “sliding-door” technology called “self-litigation.”  This new technology allows a wire to slide back and forth inside the bracket.  This method requires no elastics, creates less friction and is therefore more comfortable for the patient than traditional braces.  Damon brackets require fewer adjustments and a shorter treatment period.

Ceramic “Tooth Colored” Brackets -- Ceramic braces are translucent brackets that blend in with your natural tooth color.  They are used with patients who are concerned about the appearance of their smile as they are less metallic looking than traditional braces.  Ceramic braces are designed to resist staining and discoloration over long periods of time.

Clear Braces -- Clear Braces utilize brackets made of monocrystalline sapphire, which make the braces nearly see-through except for the thin arch wire.  Next to the Invisalign system (below), clear braces are the closest thing to invisible braces.

Metal Braces -- Metal Braces are the most economical and traditionally used braces.  Metal braces are also ideal for those with more extensive realignment needed.

ORTHODONTIC RETAINERS

Orthodontic Retainers are appliances made from plastic and stainless steel to custom fit your mouth.  They act as a guide to hold your teeth into place after braces are removed.  The retainer holds your teeth in place so your surround gums and bone can adjust around them – allowing you to maintain your realigned smile.  Although the time you must wear a retainer will vary, many orthodontists recommend retainers are worn into the early 20s until the bone in your jaw and mouth has stopped growing.  Back to top

The Invisalign treatment consists of a series of clear, snap-on, custom fit, removable mouth trays that apply a controlled amount of force to your teeth, forcing them to shift.  The system provides the same beautiful results as traditional braces, but since the trays are made of clear plastic, they are virtually invisible.  In addition, because Invisalign trays are removable, they can be taken out while eating, drinking, brushing and flossing.

The Invisalign System works begins by first creating a series of trays that will each moving your teeth gradually until the end result is achieved.  At the end of each two-week period, you will switch trays. Throughout the process, you will visit your dentist every six weeks to ensure treatment is progressing as planned.  Once your treatment is complete, you will likely wear a clear retainer to ensure your new smile stays in place.

As with all orthodontic appliances, the cost of Invisalign varies according to the complexity of the case.  However, Invisalign is generally more expensive than traditional braces. Insurance policies generally cover Invisalign to the same extent that they cover traditional braces. To learn more, visit the Invisalign website by clicking here.  Back to top

VENEERS

Veneers are a dental procedure in which a covering is placed over the outside (visible area) of the tooth. Veneers are usually only applied to the part of the tooth that is 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 aesthetic.

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.