Cosmetic Procedures
Bonding
Dental bonding is a cometic procedure that can enhance the appearance of teeth. During the process, a tooth-colored resin is applied to the affected teeth, Dental bonding can be used to conceal chips, cracks, or discolorations, close gaps, and alter a tooth shape.
The dentist prepares the tooth surface, applies the resin, cures/hardens it with a light, and then polishes the tooth. Anesthesia is usually not necessary. Results last 5-10 years, and maintenance may involve repairs to a cracked or chipped bonding or may involve redoing the bonding itself.
If you are not happy with the results, the bonding can be removed, but the extent of enamel roughing that is done to prepare the tooth for the bonding affects the tooth structure and you will need to replace the enamel with a more long-term procedure by placing veneers or crowns to protect the teeth further.
Veneers
Dental veneers are a ultra-thin shell made of ceramic or resin material. They are bonded to the front surface of teeth, similar to how artificial fingernails adhere to natural nails. Veneers are used to correct cosmetic defects or adjust the esthetics to help teeth appear straight. Veneers can even address the cosmetic imperfections of stained teeth, chipped teeth and gaps.
Advantages of veneers unlike crown require minimal tooth shaping before placement. Anesthesia is not necessary. Veneers made from porcelain or resin look natural. Porcelain veneers resist stains, while some resin veneers can be thinner and require less tooth removal.
The Veneer Process:
A consultation with your dentist is needed to determine if veneers are suitable. They will explain the procedure and any limitations. If needed during the preparations visit, a small amount of enamel is removed (usually painless), and a digital scan is performed and sent to the laboratory. Temporary veneers may be fabricated and placed for tooth protection. Finally, during the veneer placement appointment, the veneers are applied to check fit, shade, and size. Adjustments are made and then they are finally cemented using bonding agents and a blue light for curing.
Aftercare of the veneers - There are no major changes to brushing and flossing habits. Follow-up appointments with ensure that the veneers are problem free.
Remember, if you experience extreme sensitivity or any issues with your veneers, contact your dentist promptly.
Bleaching – A Guide to Bleaching Your Teeth
You are getting married, and you want your smile to be its brightest. You have an important speaking engagement coming up and you want a dazzling smile. Whatever the reason, tooth bleaching isn’t just for the movie stars or celebrities, and it isn’t just for one day. Many people have their teeth bleached, and probably millions more are thinking about it. The desire for a brighter smile with whiter teeth is very strong, and tooth bleaching safely lightens the color of the teeth, lasting for up to five years. The most effective and safest method of tooth bleaching is dentist supervised.
When it comes to bleaching, your dentist is your best guide. They’ll assess whether you’re a candidate and recommend the most effective approach.
There are two common methods:
- In Office Bleaching: If you’re in a hurry, your dentist can lighten your teeth during an in-office visit. You’ll sit in the dental chair while the dentist uses an in-office bleaching system. This method provides quick results but can be more costly.
- At Home Bleaching: Most patients prefer this option. Your dentist or hygienist will create a custom mouthguard for you. The thin, lightweight mouthguard can be worn while awake or sleeping. Along with the mouthguard, you’ll receive bleaching materials and instructions.
There are several strengths, and the duration of bleaching varies. Some systems recommend bleaching for 2-4 hours daily over 3-6 weeks, while others suggest bleaching at night for 10-14 days. Choose based on your preferences and tooth sensitivity.
Remember, that lightness can typically last 1-5 years, depending on habits like smoking, coffee, and tea. Touch-ups are possible using the same mouthguard.
Is Bleaching right for you? It works well for yellow, brown, or orange stains. Grey stain (from fluorosis, smoking, or tetracycline) shows less dramatic results Consult your dentist, especially if you have sensitive teeth, decay or worm enamel.
Feel free to discuss tooth bleaching with us. Call 352-365-64420.
Composites (White Fillings)
Composite resin fillings, also known as white fillings, are tooth-colored wonders and have become quite popular due to their natural appearance and their versatility. Back in the 60’s composite was only used for front teeth as the material was not sturdy enough for the pressure and wear experienced by the molars. Composites have become a game changer with advancements today in dental materials. Now we can successfully place composites in both the front and back teeth for a more natural appearance.
How this works? After preparing the tooth and removing any decay the composite material is placed in layers with each layer getting light cured with a blue light. Then the material is polished and sealed to prevent staining and early wear. It take a little extra time to do but the results are worth it.
Composites cost a bit more than silver fillings and most insurance plans cover composite up to the silver filling price, but as the composites keep improving insurance companies are catching up too.
The best perk about composite fillings is the aesthetic appeal. We can blend shades to match your natural teeth and some of the newer materials work like a chameleon and changes shade by catching the hues of color of the teeth around them. Plus, the composite bonds to your tooth, supporting its structure and preventing breakage.
A couple of things to consider, you might experience some post-operative sensitivity and the shade can change subtly if you’re a coffee or tea enthusiast. But that can be remedied by polishing and placing a clear coat sealer to help maintain the color. And while composites are amazing and hold up well, they may wear out sooner in larger cavities. The upside studies have shown that composites today last 7-10 years, similar to silver fillings. So, if you are ready to brighten your smile let’s chat. Call our office to schedule a consultation now 352-365-6442.
Don’t hesitate to contact us today at (352) 365-6442 if you have any questions about sealants.