Cosmetic
Teeth Whitening
Teeth whitening, also known as teeth bleaching, is a cosmetic dental procedure that aims to lighten the color of the teeth and remove stains and discoloration. It is one of the most popular and accessible cosmetic dental treatments, often providing a noticeable improvement in the brightness and whiteness of the teeth.
There are several methods of teeth whitening, including:
In-office whitening: This is performed by one of our highly trained staff at the office. A high-concentration bleaching agent is applied to the teeth, and a special light or laser may be used to enhance the whitening process. This method typically produces the fastest and most dramatic results.
At-home whitening kits: These kits consist of custom-made trays that are filled with a bleaching gel and worn over the teeth for a specified period, usually a few hours a day or overnight. At-home whitening kits are convenient and can produce noticeable results over time.
Over-the-counter whitening products: These products include whitening toothpaste, strips, and gels that can be purchased without a prescription. While they are generally less expensive than professional treatments, they may take longer to achieve noticeable results and may not be as effective.
Teeth whitening is generally safe when performed under the supervision of a dentist. However, it may not be suitable for everyone, especially those with sensitive teeth, gum disease, or extensive dental restorations. It's always best to consult with a dentist before starting any teeth whitening treatment to determine the most appropriate option for your needs.
Porcelain Veneers
Porcelain veneers are thin, custom-made shells of tooth-colored porcelain that are bonded to the front surface of the teeth to improve their appearance. Veneers are a popular cosmetic dental treatment used to correct a variety of dental issues and create a brighter, more uniform smile.
Porcelain veneers can be used to:
1. Correct discoloration: Veneers can cover teeth that are deeply stained or discolored and cannot be effectively whitened with traditional whitening methods.
2. Fix chipped or broken teeth: Veneers can restore the appearance of teeth that are chipped, broken, or worn down.
3. Close gaps between teeth: Veneers can be used to close small gaps or spaces between teeth, creating a more uniform smile.
4. Reshape teeth: Veneers can improve the size, shape, and length of teeth that are irregularly shaped or too small.
5. Improve alignment: Veneers can create the appearance of straighter teeth without the need for orthodontic treatment.
The process of getting porcelain veneers typically involves several steps, including an initial consultation, tooth preparation, taking impressions of the teeth, and the placement of the veneers. Porcelain veneers are durable and can last for many years with proper care, making them a long-lasting solution for improving the appearance of your smile.
Dental Bonding
Dental bonding is a cosmetic dental procedure in which a tooth-colored resin material is applied to the teeth and hardened with a special light, bonding the material to the tooth. It is used to repair minor imperfections in the teeth and improve their appearance.
Dental bonding can be used to:
1. Repair chipped or cracked teeth: Bonding can restore the shape and function of teeth that are chipped or cracked.
2. Close gaps between teeth: Bonding can fill in small gaps or spaces between teeth, creating a more uniform smile.
3. Improve the appearance of discolored teeth: Bonding can be used to cover stains or discoloration on the teeth, making them appear whiter and brighter.
4. Change the shape or size of teeth: Bonding can be used to reshape teeth that are too small, too pointed, or have other irregularities in shape.
5. Protect exposed tooth roots: Bonding can be used to protect and cover tooth roots that have been exposed due to gum recession.
Dental bonding is a relatively simple and cost-effective cosmetic dental procedure that can usually be completed in a single visit to the dentist. It is less invasive than other cosmetic treatments such as veneers or crowns, but it may not be as durable and may need to be replaced or touched up over time.
Clear Orthodontic Aligners
The office is happy to introduce an orthodontic system into the practice!
CandidPro is a clear aligner system that works to align your teeth as well as expand the mouth to improve overall function! This system works with patients of all ages and with a wide range of misalignments.
The benefits of clear aligners, as opposed to metal braces, include getting movement without being noticeable, no restrictions on what you can eat, and improved oral hygiene.
Another issue that can arise with crowded teeth is clenching or grinding while you sleep. This can cause TMJ pain, difficulty opening, and even eating certain foods. By correcting your bite, TMJ symptoms could be alleviated.
Clear aligners also move your teeth differently than traditional orthodontics, which means less pain and discomfort throughout treatment and in less time.
If you’re interested and would like to know if clear aligners are right for you, mention it to your clinician the next time you visit!