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Veneers
Veneers are thin
shells that are laid onto the teeth and bonded to the surface.
Although they can be made of different materials, porcelain is
frequently used because of its durability and realistic
appearance. Veneers are a more conservative alternative to
crowns since they require less removal of the tooth's original
surface. With veneers in place, patients can expect
straighter, whiter, and more even teeth.
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Tooth
Whitening
Regardless of how well you care for your
teeth, it is inevitable that, over time, some yellowing or
discoloration will occur. This gradual change can be caused by
aging, substances that stain your teeth (such as coffee and
tobacco), excessive fluoride, or the deterioration of a
tooth's nerve. A tooth whitening treatment can be performed
either as an at-home, dentist-supervised process or in the
dentist's chair. While neither of these methods stops future
discoloration, these treatments bring about whiter teeth and
help create a brighter smile.
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Dental
Implants
For individuals who wish to replace
missing teeth, dental implants may be an effective long-term
solution. Implants provide greater structural support and last
longer than either bridges or dentures. Implants serve as the
artificial root to which new teeth are bonded. They are
typically constructed of titanium, a strong and safe material
that effectively attaches to bone. The procedure to insert
dental implants typically involve three steps: the implant
insertion stage, osseointegration (the period of healing for
the jawbone), and the attachment of the restoration or new
tooth.
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Bridges
A
bridge is a device used to fill the space where a tooth has
fallen out or been removed. A typical bridge consists of a
pontic (a filler tooth) that is attached to two surrounding
abutments (crowns). Once complete, this bridge structure is
bonded into the mouth. Without the use of a bridge, spaces in
the mouth from missing teeth can cause multiple teeth to
shift, lead to occlusion (biting) and/or jaw problems and spur
periodontal disease. Bridges safeguard the integrity of
existing teeth and help maintain a healthy, vibrant smile.
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Composite Bonding
Composite bonding is a technique used to improve
the appearance of your teeth. The term composite bonding
refers to any composite material, either a plastic or resin,
which is bonded to an existing tooth. Bonding is ideal for
fixing chipped or cracked teeth, hiding discoloration on the
tooth's surface, or reducing the gaps between teeth. Whatever
the specific intent, composite bonding creates more
aesthetically pleasing teeth and a brighter smile. Unlike
veneers or crowns, composite bonding removes little if any of
the original tooth.
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Composite Fillings
Until recently, dentists filled and sealed
cavities exclusively using a silver and mercury amalgam.
Unfortunately, these fillings (or restorations) often weaken
teeth due to the large amount of the original tooth that has
to be removed. Modern dentistry has increasingly turned to
composite fillings as a strong, safe and more natural looking
alternative. Composite fillings utilize a soft white plastic
substance that includes a hardening agent.
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Crowns
When
a tooth is cracked, decayed, or damaged, a crown may need to
be fitted onto the tooth. A crown is a permanent covering that
fits over the original tooth. Crowns can be made of porcelain,
gold and other metals, acrylic resin, or an amalgam (a mix) of
these materials. Porcelain crowns typically have the most
realistic appearance, although they tend to be less durable
than other materials. Crowns can whiten, reshape, and realign
existing teeth, adding to a bright, healthy smile.
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