1. - What is cosmetic
dentistry? Cosmetic dentistry is the dental art of smile enhancement.
It can give people with discolored, chipped or crooked teeth a stunningly
attractive and appealing smile.
2. - What is a cosmetic dentist? A cosmetic dentist is a specially
trained general dentist who uses cosmetic techniques and materials
to provide you with a more attractive smile. Cosmetic dentistry is
not considered a specialty by the ADA.
3. - How long has the doctor been doing cosmetic dentistry?
Dr. Anderson has been providing cosmetic dentistry for his patients
for 15 years. He has changed hundreds of smiles from dull to dazzling.
4. - What criteria would make me a candidate for Cosmetic Dentistry?
Anyone who wants a whiter or straighter smile is a good candidate.
If you have crooked, yellowing teeth or are self conscious of your
smile, then cosmetic dentistry is an excellent option for you.
5. - What are porcelain veneers? A porcelain veneer is a coating
of fine porcelain that is bonded to your tooth to change its shape,
size or color.
6. - How long do porcelain veneers last? Porcelain veneers
are intended to be long lasting restorations. They became popular
in the 1980s and many patients from that time still have their veneers.
In the past fifteen years, veneers have evolved and improved dramatically.
Due to the advancements in techniques and materials, today's veneers
should last even longer.
7. - What are porcelain inlays and onlays? Do they replace
a crown or cap? Porcelain inlays and onlays are like pieces of a jigsaw
puzzle. The porcelain pieces fit into the tooth to restore the natural
effect. Yes, porcelain inlays and onlays can replace crowns or caps.
When crowns or caps are placed on teeth, the tooth structure is drilled
down to a stub. Porcelain inlays and onlays, on the other hand,
are much more conservative. These restorations build and bond to the
remaining healthy tooth structure.
8. - What is bleaching? Bleaching brightens dull teeth to a
more appealing white.
9. - Can bleaching harm my teeth? Will my teeth become more
sensitive to hot or cold? Studies have shown that bleaching gels cause
no harm to the teeth when used under direct dental supervision. Teeth
may feel sensitive for up to 24 hours after the bleaching procedures,
but this sensitivity almost always dissipates to zero after that.
