Cosmetic Dentistry
Cosmetic dentistry refers to any dental procedure that improves the look of your smile. Doctor Russell provides many cosmetic services, ranging from small composites and whitening to all ceramic crowns. Below are some of the cosmetic dentistry options we offer at our offices:
Bleaching (Tooth Whitening)
Bleaching brightens teeth that are discolored or stained. Our office can provide both Zoom! whitening or take home bleaching trays. Please talk to one of our doctors to decide which procedure is right for you. Zoom Whitening!Composite Bonding
Bonding is used to repair small to moderate sized chips, spaces, discolorations or other defects in teeth. A composite material of a similar shade is used to bring the tooth back to its proper shape.
Advantages
- Conservative
- The least amount of tooth needs to be removed for a composite filling
- Chemical bond to the tooth
- Esthetic
Disadvantages
- Durability
- As compared to an inlay, onlay or crown, composites have a higher propensity for chipping or cracking.
Veneers
Veneers are thin layers of porcelain that are custom made and bonded over the front of the teeth. Veneer can correct teeth that are discolored, chipped, slightly crooked, or misshapen. Veneers are thin layers of either composite or porcelain that cover the teeth to correct shape, color, length, decay for other defects in teeth. Veneers can be either made of porcelain or composite.
Porcelain Veneers
Porcelain veneers are the most commonly used veneers. When used in the correct situations, they can correct a variety of problems and are both conservative and long-lasting. Veneers bond to the existing enamel of the tooth, which is a very strong bond. Your occlusion (or bite) plays an important part in decided which restorations are the right choice for you.
Composite Veneers
Composite veneers are applied directly to the teeth. Some reduction of enamel may be necessary, but often the composite is placed with no or minimal preparation of the teeth. Composite veneers are faster and less expensive than porcelain veneers, but are slightly more limited in their suitable situations. Composite veneers can fade or chip easier than porcelain veneers.
Advantages
- Convervative
- Requires minimal tooth reduction
- Fast - Compared to orthodontics, teeth position can be changed immediately
- Esthetic - Veneers can be made to very closely mimic the natural colors and light translucencies of natural teeth.
Disadvantages
- Tooth preparation, although it is minimal.
- Possibly for failure, due to recession and exposed roots or breakage.
Other Options As with any treatment, there are often other options to restore your smile. In some cases a simpler option may provide acceptable results. Some other options to veneers are:
- Whitening
- Contouring or reshaping teeth
- Using composite resin to close spaces
- Orthodontics