Cosmetic Dentistry for the Smile You’ve Always Wanted

I’m reluctant to smile because I hate the look of my teeth. Can porcelain veneers help?

Veneers are a great option for correcting gaps between your teeth, stains, or badly shaped or crooked teeth leaving you with the beautiful smile you’ve always wanted. Porcelain veneers are basically thin shells of ceramic that bond directly to the front and top surfaces of your teeth. Once there, they perfectly mimic your natural teeth—only better. Veneers have become increasingly popular due to their simplicity and versatility.

Will they really like my natural teeth?

Absolutely, or strength and appearance, their resemblance to healthy, white tooth enamel is unsurpassed by other restorative options. When bonded to your teeth, the ultra-thin porcelain veneers are virtually undetectable. They’re also highly resistant to coffee, tea, or even cigarette stains. Because they’re thin, light can shine through them and they take on the natural color of the underlying tooth. And with proper care, porcelain veneers will brighten your smile for well over a decade.

I have a couple teeth that are beyond hope. Are dental implants a good option?

Dental implants are tiny titanium posts placed into your jawbone wherever teeth are missing. Once there, they provide a foundation for replacement teeth that look, feel, and function like your natural teeth. Implants give you the ability to eat virtually anything and to smile with confidence, knowing your teeth appear natural and your facial contours are preserved. Your natural bone bonds with the titanium, creating a strong foundation for artificial teeth. Implants also help preserve facial structure, preventing bone deterioration that occurs when teeth are missing.

Can you tell me about the implant process?

For most patients, the placement of dental implants will involve two surgical procedures. During the first procedure, implants are placed within your jawbone. For the first three months following surgery, the implants are beneath the surface of the gums gradually bonding with the jawbone and you should be able to wear a temporary tooth or teeth and eat a soft diet. After the implant has integrated into the bone, a permanent restoration is made. The entire procedure takes from two to four months and most patients don’t experience any disruption to their life.

I’m a major dental chicken. What can you do to help relieve my anxiety?

You’re definitely not alone. But many of my patients find that nitrous oxide offers them a pleasant level of sedation, within 30 seconds to four minutes, and often a numb feeling in your cheeks and gums. After the gas is adjusted to the appropriate dose, and you’re relaxed and sedated, I can comfortably administer an anesthetic injection, if you require one. After treatment is completed, I’ll administer pure oxygen for you to breathe for about five minutes, during which all the effects of sedation will be reversed. Another option is sedation dentistry. Under sedation most patients feel no discomfort and afterwards have little to no memory of their visit.