What are veneers and who are they best suited for?
Essentially, when we're looking at veneers for teeth, what those are is a thin covering that goes over the front of our teeth generally to improve the appearance of them. There are two different types of materials that we use: porcelain veneers and composite veneers.
Which type of veneer is right for me?
It depends on what we're looking to get out of the veneers long term and how long you want them to last. Porcelain veneers generally look much nicer because they're made in a laboratory offsite and tend to last longer because porcelain is a stronger material. The downside is the higher cost. Composite veneers are a cheaper alternative made out of composite resin, similar to filling material. However, they don't offer the same level of cosmetics or longevity as porcelain.
What options do I have for teeth whitening?
Teeth whitening is a common method to remove surface stains and improve shade. We have at-home and in-office options. At-home involves custom trays and a bleaching agent. In-office is a quicker, more intense treatment but can cause pain and sensitivity. We only offer the at-home option as it minimizes discomfort while achieving similar results.
What is a smile makeover and what treatments are included?
A smile makeover is a comprehensive transformation of your smile using various treatments customized to your needs. Common procedures include veneers, crowns, bonding, orthodontics, implants, and bridges. The first step is an exam and 3D modeling to create a personalized plan.
How do I choose the right cosmetic dentist?
Beyond searching online, ensure you have a good rapport with your dentist, as cosmetic treatments can be lengthy. Credentials aren't specific to cosmetic dentistry, so look for evidence of their work, such as before-and-after photos, reviews, and case studies to ensure you trust their expertise.
What is the difference between veneers and crowns?
The main difference is that a veneer covers the front portion of the tooth, while a crown covers the entire tooth. The choice between them depends on the extent of damage or discoloration. Crowns are better for heavily damaged or discolored teeth, as they are thicker and can block out discoloration better than veneers.
What is cosmetic dentistry?
Cosmetic dentistry involves a wide range of dental treatments that aim to improve the aesthetics of your teeth. This can range from something as simple as tooth whitening to dental bonding, veneers, crowns, and braces or Invisalign.
How would I know if cosmetic dentistry is right for me or my family?
The best way to determine if cosmetic dentistry is right for you or a family member is through a dental exam. We'll take x-rays, photos, and sometimes a 3D digital scan to assess the condition of your teeth and discuss your desired improvements. We'll then come up with an individualized plan to best fix your smile.
What's the difference between cosmetic dentistry and general dentistry?
Cosmetic dentistry focuses more on the aesthetics and the looks of the teeth, whereas general dentistry is about keeping your teeth healthy and maintaining good oral health long term.
What is the difference between cosmetic dentistry and restorative dentistry?
Cosmetic dentistry and restorative dentistry are similar, but restorative dentistry involves restoring unhealthy teeth due to cavities or cracks, while cosmetic dentistry focuses mainly on the looks and aesthetics of the teeth.
How can cosmetic dentists fix my teeth?
Cosmetic dentists can offer a wide range of treatments such as whitening, dental bonding, veneers, crowns, and orthodontic treatment. The appropriate treatment plan will depend on your current situation and desired outcome.
Can cosmetic dentistry improve my smile?
Absolutely, the main goal of cosmetic dentistry is to improve your smile and boost your confidence.
Can cosmetic dentistry fix an overbite?
It depends on how severe the overbite is. Generally, overbites are best treated with orthodontic treatments like braces or Invisalign.
Can a cosmetic dentist fix crooked teeth?
Yes, depending on the severity of the crookedness. Minor tilting or crowding can be fixed with fillings or veneers. More severe cases might require orthodontic treatment followed by restorative procedures.
How old should a child be before considering cosmetic dentistry?
I recommend waiting until a child is at least 18 years old before considering cosmetic dentistry, as their teeth and gums continue to change into their early 20s.
Can a cosmetic dentist work with young children?
With young children, we don't typically perform cosmetic procedures. If they're in their adult teeth and there is crowding, we can consider orthodontic treatment, typically around the ages of 10 to 12.
Is there any point where someone is too old or not well enough for cosmetic dentistry?
In my opinion, we're never too old to improve something about ourselves. If you're unhappy with your smile and want to improve it, there are less invasive procedures that can help enhance your smile.
What other conditions can be fixed with cosmetic dentistry?
It depends on the problem, but cosmetic dentistry can also help treat dental diseases and protect teeth long term.
How can cosmetic dentistry change the structure of my mouth?
This depends on the procedures being done. Orthodontic treatment, for example, can change the structure of your mouth and align your teeth better, helping them last longer and be protected against breaks and cracks.
What are some of the advantages of cosmetic dentistry?
Cosmetic dentistry offers several advantages and benefits. Foremost, it significantly improves the appearance of your smile. This improvement often boosts patients' self-confidence, encouraging them to smile more. Smiling is crucial for effective day-to-day communication. The essence of cosmetic dentistry lies in its ability to restore people's smiles, enhancing their comfort in social interactions. Patients feel more confident when meeting friends, family, and engaging in various activities, thanks to the renewed sense of self that a revitalized smile brings.
What can I expect from the cosmetic dentistry process?
When you opt for cosmetic dentistry, the process typically begins with an initial examination and the gathering of records. This step is crucial to determine the specific treatments required to achieve the desired results for your smile. Depending on the treatments needed, the process can vary significantly. We will outline the number of appointments expected, the timeline for these appointments, and when you can anticipate the completion of your new smile. This comprehensive plan ensures that you are well-informed and comfortable with every step of the cosmetic dentistry process.
What should I consider when looking for a cosmetic dentist?
The key factor in cosmetic dentistry is finding a practitioner with whom you feel comfortable. Given that you'll be attending several appointments, it's crucial to establish a rapport with your dentist. Ensuring that you're both on the same page is essential for achieving the desired results. Comfort and clear communication with your dentist will greatly contribute to a successful and satisfying cosmetic dentistry experience.
What anesthesia options are available for my cosmetic dentistry procedure?
The necessity for numbing in cosmetic dentistry varies depending on the type of procedure. For simple treatments like teeth whitening, there is no need for numbing, as the process is generally pain-free. However, for more invasive procedures, such as fitting a crown, numbing is administered to ensure your comfort during the procedure. It's important that you do not experience pain, as this makes the appointment more comfortable and enjoyable for both you and the dental team. Ensuring patient comfort is a top priority, especially during more complex dental treatments.
We understand that your smile is important to you. That’s why Renew Dental offers a wide range of cosmetic dental treatments to help you get the smile of your dreams!
Cosmetic Dentistry Can Help You Get the Smile of Your Dreams!
Cosmetic dentistry is known as the art of improving one’s smile. This includes procedures such as teeth whitening, veneers, and dental implants to give you that dream smile!
Types of Cosmetic Dentistry Procedures
Why Choose Cosmetic Dentistry at Renew Dental?
- Improve Your Smile
- Prevent Future Problems with your Teeth
- Restore Your Teeth
- Improve the Function of Your Teeth & Bite
- Embrace a Confident Smile!