Improve your Smile: Cosmetic Dentistry 101

Cosmetic dentistry isn't just about tooth whitening these days. There are various procedures that your dentist can implement in order to fix not only discoloration, but also chipped or missing teeth, gaps, or anything else that is preventing you from achieving the smile of your dreams. Dr. Dernick, your Woodlands dentist, not only provides general dentistry, but also practices some of the cosmetic procedures listed in the following article. If you have any concerns about the status of your smile, come in for an appointment to discuss your options:

Today, cosmetic dentistry is more popular than ever, from whitening and shaping, to closing spaces and replacing teeth. And dentists have a wide array of tools and techniques at their disposal for improving the look of your smile. 

Before deciding to undergo any cosmetic procedure, it's important to know the benefits and risks, and what you can expect during the process. Make sure you're clear about what it will cost, how much experience your dentist has with the procedure, and whether any special maintenance will be needed afterward.

The Woodlands Dentist

Teeth WhiteningOver time teeth can become stained or discolored, especially after smoking, taking certain medications, or consuming foods and beverages such as coffee and tea. Using a chemical process, your dentist can bleach your teeth in one of two ways. He can do an in-office procedure, or provide you with a system to use at home.  

Your dentist can create a custom mouthpiece that ensures the right amount of whitening solution reaches your teeth. You may find whitening at home more convenient. But it can take two to four weeks. In-office whitening can take place in one or more 45- to 60-minute visits. 

Keep in mind, your teeth can become stained again if you continue exposing them to the same substances that originally stained them. Since whitening products are not meant to clean teeth, it is still important to continue practicing daily oral hygiene by brushing twice a day and flossing at least once a day.  

Bonding
Bonding may improve how your teeth look if they have excess space between them, or if they are chipped, broken, stained, or cracked. 

Dentists also use bonding materials to fill small cavities or to protect the exposed root of a tooth. 

The dentist can usually do this procedure in a single office visit by applying an etching solution followed by tooth-colored materials -- sometimes composite resins -- directly to the tooth's surface where needed. 

Although bonding can last for several years, it is more likely than other types of restorations to chip or become stained...

To Continue reading about how you can improve your smile, Dr. Dernick recommends visiting Web MD for more information: http://www.webmd.com/oral-health/america-asks-12/cosmetic-dentistry?page=1

Robert G. Dernick, DDS

1001 Medical Plaza Drive Suite 300
The Woodlands, TX 77380

http://www.drdernickdds.com/

281-367-3900