Resin and Porcelain Veneers

A large proportion of the population has cosmetic concerns or irregularities in their teeth. If you are interested in pursuing correction of such areas, veneers are a minimally invasive method of altering the shape and color of the front teeth.

Teeth can have cosmetic defects for a variety of reasons, including: mineral deficiencies or concentrations, developmental anomalies, old cavities and fillings, and prior root canals or traumatized teeth.  All of these issues can be corrected by the use of veneers, which are thin layers of restorative materials which will cover those defects.

There are two types of veneers: porcelain veneers and resin veneers. The preparation for both types of veneers is similar.  Under a local anesthetic, a small amount of enamel is removed from the front, top, and sides of the teeth to create the space for the material of your choice.

Porcelain is the material of choice for veneers. The average replacement time for porcelain veneers ranges from 10-15 years, depending on at-home maintenance. They are long lasting, non-porous (won't stain), and highly esthetic.  The drawback to porcelain veneers, however, is that they are more expensive, require multiple appointments, and if the veneers fracture they need to be completely remade.

Resin veneers are the alternative material.  The average replacement time for resin veneers ranges from 5-7 years. They do not last as long as porcelain veneers, are porous (can stain over time), and are less esthetic.  However, the resin material is more affordable and the veneers can be completed in one appointment. Additionally, if the resin fractures in small areas, they can be patched and repaired.

Cosmetic Crowns

Crowns can be completed for cosmetic purposes.

All white ceramic crowns are made with greater translucency to provide a realistic appearance. Cosmetic crowns are preferred over veneers when a minimal amount of the original tooth is remaining or the restoration is to be placed on a premolar or molar.

At your first appointment, we will provide local anesthetic to complete the procedure with minimal discomfort. Any defective restoration or cavity will be removed from the tooth structure and replaced with a "core buildup", or resin bonded filling that restores the original tooth structure. The tooth will then be prepared and reduced in size for the material width of the crown. A final impression of the preparation will then be sent to our trusted and local dental laboratory  to create your final crown. A temporary crown will be made and cemented to protect the underlying tooth structure.

At the second appointment, we will again provide local anesthetic if needed, remove the temporary crown, and evaluate the final crown with you. If it is to your satisfaction it will be cemented into place permanently and adjusted as needed.

Tooth Whitening

Tooth whitening is widely available through various products both in the retail market and through dental offices. It is highly recommended to use whitening products from dental offices versus retail stores for several reasons.

Any whitening products that come from a dental office have been clinically verified to provide the effects desired. Many store bought whitening products only provide minimal to moderate improvements in esthetics, and your teeth will quickly return to their prior shade when you cease using the product.

Other whitening products available via retail can also cause sensitivity to your teeth. Although sensitivity is a common side effect of whitening, overuse and unsupervised use of excessive whitening agents will cause more noticeable symptoms, which can take weeks to months to fully subside.

Other methods of whitening, such as the newer charcoal based toothpastes, can cause trauma and abrasions to your teeth and gums. When the enamel is damaged in this way, it will never return and can lead to permanent sensitivity and cavity formation.

If you are interested in whitening products, we have one-size-fits-all products or custom made trays with whitening gel that you can use at home. Inquire with us at your next appointment for more information.