Real Cosmetic Solutions

 Cosmetic dentistry isn’t just what you see on Extreme Makeover.  It entails a lot of different restorative and cosmetic procedures.  There are a variety of solutions to different concerns a patient may have.  While I can’t begin to cover all the solutions to every cosmetic quandary, I can give you some ideas for specific problems you may have.

What can be done if I have stained or discolored teeth?

If you have stained or discolored teeth, but otherwise like your smile the way it is, all you may need are whitening procedures to give you the smile you have always wanted.  Whitening can be done with over-the-counter treatments; custom fabricated whitening trays or “power whitening” that is done in the office.  Consult with your dentist to see which procedure would be best for you because there are different advantages to each method available today.

What can be done if I have missing teeth?

Missing teeth can be replaced with predictable results that feel like your natural teeth using implants or fixed bridges.  Another option is to replace missing teeth with a removable partial denture.  Most patients prefer implants or fixed bridges since they don’t come in and out of their mouth, but in some situations partial dentures are a viable alternative.

What can be done if I have chipped, cracked or worn teeth?

Once the reason for the problems are corrected, chipped, cracked or worn teeth can be beautifully restored with beautiful natural looking resin bonding, porcelain veneers or porcelain crowns.  When restorations are fabricated by an outstanding technician, the results will be indistinguishable from the natural tooth.

What can be done if I have crooked or crowded teeth?

Crooked or crowded teeth can often be corrected with orthodontic tooth movement and/or cosmetic dental restorations.  I have always preferred to have the teeth God gave us moved into the right position with orthodontics, but in some cases dental restorations offer an excellent alternative.

What can be done if I have old and unsightly fillings?

Often people smile and you see old silver fillings that have stained the tooth or made it look dark.  Old, unsightly fillings can now be replaced with esthetic tooth-colored resin filling materials that blend perfectly with the tooth.  For larger restorations porcelain fillings or crowns may be the treatment of choice.

What can be done if I have excessive or uneven gums?

Excessive or uneven gums can be corrected with cosmetic gum surgery that results in a more even, pleasing smile.  Teeth that appear short can be “lengthened” by repositioning the gums to give a broader, more noticeable smile.

 Every smile is different and no two patients are alike, but I hope this gives you some ideas as to what can be done in the world of dentistry today.