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Sedation dentistry refers to methods for managing fear and anxiety during dental procedures. It is commonly called pain-free dentistry. Read this article to find out more about this treatment option.

Dental implants are a fine way to improve the function and the appearance of your smile. Read this article to learn more about dental implants and how they can have a positive impact on your smile.

Porcelain dental veneers improve the appearance of teeth. Porcelain veneers not only look attractive, they also protect teeth from further damage. Read this informative article on cosmetic dentistry to learn more.

No matter your level of dread in visiting the dentist, there’s an alternative. Here we answer the most common concerns patients have about sedation dentistry.

Tooth whitening is one of the most popular procedures used at the dentist office today. Whether you choose to use one of the take-home bleaching kits or have an in-office procedure, tooth whitening is an easy way to improve your appearance.

Want an easier, less obtrusive alternative to traditional metal braces? If so, you should consider the Invisalign® teeth straightening system. Assess your candidacy for Invisalign® here in this article.

In this article you will find basic information about what makes a person a good candidate for the cosmetic dentistry procedure of dental implants, as well as who is not a good candidate.

The Invisalign® system has now effectively helped over 1 million patients realign their teeth, simply, and effortlessly. This article explores frequently asked questions about the Invisalign system for aligning teeth.

If you’re thinking about having cosmetic dentistry then you may have a few important questions to ask beforehand. This article explores some of those questions, and provides general answers.

Many people are spending time improving their appearance. Undergoing a teeth whitening procedure is often the last step to achieve their more youthful appearance. It is important to understand all the teeth whitening options available. One of the most popular forms of teeth whitening is in-office teeth whitening procedures. Here are some of the frequently asked questions regarding in-office teeth whitening.

How safe is in-office teeth whitening?

Teeth whitening, especially in-office teeth whitening are a very safe dental procedure. Teeth whitening procedures are performed by using peroxide based gel and sometimes applying a laser to the gel while on the teeth. In-office teething whitening is even safe for individuals with sensitive teeth.

What types of side effects are associated with in-office teeth whitening?

Some of the common side effects associated with in-office teeth whitening are mild sensitivity of the teeth or gums after the procedure. Typically, side effects of teeth whitening are minimal. Teeth whitening procedures do not typically cause any pain. However, an individual with sensitive teeth should consult their cosmetic dentist and possibly use a milder peroxide gel.

What results should I expect after an in-office teeth whitening procedure?

Many people see dramatic results after one in-office teeth whitening procedure. Sometimes the results can be up to 10 shades whiter. However, if your teeth discoloration is due to medication such as tetracycline you may require multiple in-office teeth whitening sessions or a combination of teeth whitening methods.

How can I make the results of in-office teeth whitening last longer?

An in-office teeth whitening procedure often whitens the teeth up to 10 shades. Maintaining proper oral hygiene is the first step in lasting results. It is important to reduce or eliminate items such as coffee, tea, soda, and cigarette smoking as they will cause your teeth to become discolored or stained even after an in-office teeth whitening procedure.

If you have missing teeth and are looking for a great permanent tooth replacement option, dental implants may be the ideal cosmetic dentistry option. The following are some common questions that are frequently asked about the procedure:

What are dental implants?

Dental implants are a common cosmetic dentistry application that is ideal in cases which require permanent tooth replacement for patients who are missing some or all of their teeth.

What is the difference between dental implants and dentures or bridges?

Dentures and bridges can also replace missing teeth, but are removable options. Dental implants present an option that is durable and permanent, and can easily resume the ability to chew and eat normally while improving the look of your smile.

Who is a good candidate for dental implants?

Dental implants are most commonly used in cases where a root canal has failed in saving a tooth, a patient is suffering from advanced periodontitis or gum disease, or the patient has missing teeth due to physical trauma or excessive wear and tear on the natural teeth.

How are dental implants created for and inserted into my mouth?

Your cosmetic dentist will usually complete placement of dental implants in two appointments. The first will consist of undergoing local anesthesia and drilling titanium screws into the jawbone. Temporary crowns or dentures, depending upon the number of dental implants used, are placed for a three to six month period that allows the screws to bond to the bone. At the next appointment, a natural-looking tooth replacement is created for the patient, and is anchored to the previously-placed screws. This creates a natural-looking alternative to dentures or bridges that is both permanent and durable.

How will I care for my new dental implants?

Your dental implants will require the same regular preventive and cleaning care practiced with your natural teeth. In the case of extreme physical trauma, the convenience of cosmetic dentistry allows for replacement of the tooth part of the implant, much like a crown.

Numerous cosmetic dental procedures are available today, and it may be difficult to determine which cosmetic dental option is the right one for you. Whether you're looking to replace missing teeth or brighten a dull, discolored smile, there's a cosmetic dental procedure waiting for you. Here are some of the most common treatment options for those wanting to improve their smile.

Teeth Whitening

Teeth whitening can correct stained or discolored teeth caused by certain drinks, such as coffee and tea, smoking or age. In-office laser whitening and dentist-supervised at-home teeth whitening are the two most effective options.

Dental Implants

Dental implants are a solution for missing teeth. Dental implants use a titanium rod that integrates with the jawbone and a natural-looking replacement tooth to restore your smile.

Crowns and Bridges

Dental crowns and bridges can be used to repair damaged teeth or replace missing teeth, respectively. Dental crowns are used as a "cap" on a damaged tooth after the dentist rids the tooth of the decay and prepares it for the crown. Dental bridges consist of two crowns and a replacement tooth. This structure is used to close up the gap caused by a missing tooth.

Porcelain Veneers

Porcelain veneers are thin shells of ceramic porcelain that fit over the front of the teeth. Veneers can correct many cosmetic issues, such as gaps, cracks, chips, and alignment problems.

Tooth-Colored Fillings

Tooth-colored fillings are the popular alternative to traditional silver amalgam fillings. The composite resin used in these fillings can also be customized to closely match the shade of your natural teeth. Many prefer the appearance of tooth-colored fillings over the amalgam fillings.

Dental Bonding

Dental bonding is used to repair gaps and chipped or cracked teeth. A composite resin that matches the natural color of your teeth is applied to the teeth to correct these common issues.

Invisalign®

Invisalign® is the clear alternative in orthodontic treatment. The Invisalign® system uses clear, customized, removable aligners to gently move the teeth into alignment, much like traditional orthodontic braces. Invisalign® can generally correct many common orthodontic problems.

Modern orthodontics offers a variety of options to patients who wish to straighten their teeth and strengthen their bite, from traditional metal braces to less conspicuous clear braces.  However, none of these options offers the ease of use and inconspicuous appearance of the revolutionary Invisalign® system.  Invisalign® tooth aligners are virtually invisible orthodontic appliances that, unlike traditional braces, can be removed for eating, drinking, brushing, and flossing.  As they can be worn by people of all ages, Invisalign® aligners allow everyone from teenagers to adults to undergo treatment without calling attention to the fact that they are actively straightening their teeth.  This makes Invisalign® an ideal orthodontic alternative for adults who associate traditional metal braces with adolescence.

How does Invisalign® work?

Aside from being inconspicuous, Invisalign® tooth aligners are strong yet comfortable.  Each set of aligners is customized according to the position of the patient's teeth at the beginning of treatment through to the ideal position of the teeth that is the goal of treatment.  Every two weeks or so, one set of aligners is exchanged for the next in the series, which gently guides the teeth further toward their final position.  Treatment requires no more time, and often less time, than treatment with traditional braces; generally, patients are able to reach their goals in between 12 and 48 months. One of the primary practical advantages of Invisalign® tooth aligners is that they can be removed for the purpose of attending to basic oral hygiene.  Wearers can brush and floss their teeth as they normally would, removing particles of food that might be otherwise difficult to access with traditional metal braces.  The Invisalign® system also allows wearers to eat foods that would be restricted for wearers of traditional metal braces, including many healthy fruits and grains.  It is no wonder that many cosmetic dentists and patients alike are turning to Invisalign® as the clear alternative to braces.