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The
goal of cosmetic (esthetic) dentistry is to improve the appearance of
your teeth and smile. It includes bleaching, bonding, veneers and
crowns.
Bleaching is a simple method of whitening teeth. It can be done in the
office or at home using materials supplied by our office. We are currently
using Colgate Platinum home bleaching system, one of only three systems to be
approved by the ADA as safe and effective. The system consists of a custom made
bleaching tray which is worn 1 to 3 times a day for 20 to 30 minutes at a time.
It usually takes 2 to 3 weeks to achieve the desired results. Bleaching is
often used in conjunction with bonding or veneers to deal with more severe
stains.
The term bonding usually is used to refer to the direct application of a
composite resin material to the front surface of a tooth in the dental office.
bonding can be used to restore teeth that are chipped, cracked, misaligned,
discolored or a combination of these conditions. The composite resin is a putty
like material which can be shaped and molded on the front of the tooth and then
hardened using a bright light. It can usually be completed in one visit, though
more complicated cases may require several visits.
Porcelain veneers are thin ceramic shells which are bonded onto the front
surface of teeth similar to the way false fingernails are applied. Veneer is
much more durable than is composite bonding (above), and can be used in all of
the same situations in which bonding is used. Porcelain veneers are made in a
dental laboratory and usually take two appointments to complete.
Porcelain crowns can be used to restore severely broken down or heavily
filled teeth which would not be good candidates for bonding or porcelain
veneers. They may also be used to "straighten" more severely misaligned or
rotated/crooked teeth with orthodontics. Anterior teeth which have undergone
root canal therapy are probably better treated with a crown to help improve the
strength as well as the appearance of the tooth. Crowns, like porcelain
veneers, are made in a dental laboratory and take appointments to complete.
More information on types of crowns can be found under the Fillings and Crowns link.
Fillings and Crowns
Gum Disease
NTI for Migraine Headaches and Jaw Discomfort
Replacing Missing Teeth
Children's Dentistry
Oral Hygiene and Prevention
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