Cosmetic Dentistry

PORCELAIN

VENEERS

Veneers are very thin pieces of durable, tooth shaped porcelain that are custom made (for shape and color) by a professional dental laboratory. They are bonded onto the front of teeth to create a beautiful and attractive smile.

Veneers can completely reshape your teeth and smile. They can often be alternatives to crowns and the ideal solution in treating many dental conditions.

As with most dental restorations, veneers are not permanent and may someday need replacement. They are very durable and will last many years, giving you a beautiful long-lasting smile.

What does getting porcelain veneers involve?

Getting veneers usually requires two visits to complete the process, with little or no anesthesia required during the procedure. The teeth are prepared by lightly buffing and shaping the surface to allow for the thickness of the veneer. A mold or impression of the teeth is taken, and a shade (color) will then be chosen by you and the dentist.

On the second visit the teeth will be cleansed with special liquids to achieve a durable bond. Bonding cement is then placed between the tooth and veneer and a special light beam is used to harden and set the bond.

You will receive care instructions for veneers. Proper brushing, flossing and regular dental visits will aid in the life of your new veneers.

Reasons For Porcelain Veneers

Cosmetically

to create a uniform, white, beautiful smile

Crooked Teeth

Misshapen Teeth

Severely Discolored

or stained teeth

Teeth That Are

too small or large

Unwanted

or uneven spaces

Worn or Chipped Teeth

TOOTH

WHITENING

Tooth whitening (or bleaching) is a simple, non-invasive dental treatment used to change the color of natural tooth enamel and is an ideal way to enhance the beauty of your smile.

Because having whiter teeth has now become the number one aesthetic concern of most patients, there are several ways to whiten teeth. The most popular method is using an at home tooth whitening system that will typically whiten teeth dramatically.

Since tooth whitening only works on natural tooth enamel, it is important to evaluate replacement of any old fillings, crowns, etc. Replacement of any restorations will be done after bleaching so they will match the newly bleached teeth.

Tooth whitening is not permanent. A touch up may be needed every several years, and more often if you smoke, drink coffee, tea, or wine.

What does tooth whitening involve?

This type of tooth whitening usually requires two visits. At the first appointment, impressions (molds) will be made of your teeth to fabricate custom, transparent plastic, trays.

At your second appointment, you will try on the trays for proper fit, and adjustments will be made if necessary. The trays are worn with special whitening solution and instructions. It is normal to experience tooth sensitivity during the time you are whitening your teeth, but it will subside shortly after you have stopped bleaching.

You will receive care instructions for your teeth and trays and be encouraged to visit your dentist regularly to help maintain a beautiful, healthy, white smile.

Reasons For Tooth Whitening

Fluorosis

(excessive fluoridation during tooth development)

Normal Wear

of outer tooth layer

Stained Teeth

due to medications (tetracycline, etc.), coffee, wine

Dicoloration

brown or yellow stained teeth