Q: What can cosmetic dentistry do for me?
A: In short, cosmetic dentistry can help you achieve the smile you have always wanted. Using advanced techniques and the latest technology, cosmetic dental procedures can make teeth straighter, whiter, and more even. Problems like chips, stains, and gaps can be easily remedied. No matter what your smile looks like now, cosmetic dentistry can improve it!
Q: What are some of the advances that have been made in cosmetic dentistry?
A: New materials and technological tools are making dental procedures easier, safer, more effective, and more natural-looking. The availability of porcelain and white filling material have given patients ways to restore their teeth without the risks of mercury-containing amalgam or the aesthetic limits of other materials. Laser technology can be used for tooth whitening in order to give you remarkable results in about an hour.
Q: What solutions are available for missing teeth?
A: If you are missing one or more teeth, you may be a candidate for crown and bridge treatment, partials, implants, or full dentures. It is important to seek treatment, because missing teeth can cause problems for your surrounding teeth, compromise your ability to chew, and detract from your appearance. Crown and bridge treatments can replace a missing tooth by attaching a new crown to the teeth adjacent to the hole. This is a good option for a single tooth that has been lost due to trauma. Full or partial dentures can fill in the gaps left by multiple missing teeth. Partials are used when you have some healthy teeth left to which dentures can be anchored.
Q: How can I brighten my smile?
A: Zoom tooth whitening (the "laser" whitenig system seen on the television show Extreme Makeover) is an excellent way to brighten your smile in a short time. All it takes is one appointment to whiten your teeth up to nine shades! Zoom tooth whitening is a simple and comfortable procedure. How it works: Over the course of an hour a clear whitening gel is periodically applied to the front surface of your teeth. Meanwhile a bright light is focused on your smile, activating the whitening gel. Voila, walk away with a beautiful smile!
A:At home whitening As an alternative to Zoom, bleaching trays can be custom made to snap over the teeth. The clear vac-u-formed trays are about as thick as a few sheets of paper. Whitening gel is deposited into the trays and snapped into place. Wear the trays for 1-2 hours,even while asleep. After two treatments you'll notice a significant color change. Wear them more and whiter your teeth will get. This is not like the products sold in drug stores. No equivocation... this system works.
If your teeth need more than whitening or if they are more grayish in color than yellow, you may be better off with porcelain veneers. One of the best ways to achieve that "signature" smile, veneers can be placed in just a few appointments. In addition to improving your tooth color, veneers can reshape and realign your teeth. You will have a brighter and more beautiful smile in no time!
Q: How can I learn more about cosmetic dentistry?
A: Dr. Kotlarek and staff would be more than happy to discuss your interest in cosmetic dentistry with you. Please contact us for information or to schedule at consultation. We can discuss your options with you as well as any concerns you may have.
Dr. Kotlarek is a member of many prestigious dental associations including:
American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry
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