Overview

Smiles are the most eye-catching feature of someone's face. With the new advances in dentistry, patients no longer have to settle for teeth with bad appearances. Patients can now make choices that will help you smile with confidence.

Even the most subtle change in your smile can make a dramatic difference in the way you look and feel about yourself. Talk to your dentist about the options most suitable for you, what your expectations are and the dental fees involved. Some options are:

• Bonding can improve the appearance of teeth that are chipped, broken, cracked, stained, or have spaces between them. With bonding, tooth-colored materials are applied, or bonded, to the tooth surface.
• Tooth whitening ( bleaching) brightens teeth that are discolored or stained. Bleaching may be done completely in the dental office or the dentist may dispense a system for you to use at home.
• Veneers are thin custom-made shells designed to cover the front side of teeth. Made of tooth-colored materials, veneers are used to treat spaces between teeth and teeth that are chipped or worn, permanently stained, poorly shaped or slightly crooked.
• Enamel shaping involves modifying teeth to improve their appearance by removing or contouring enamel. The process, which often is combined with bonding, usually is quick and comfortable and the results can be seen immediately.
• Braces are not just for kids. Orthodontics may be needed if teeth are crooked, crowded or do not meet properly. If your dentist thinks you should see a specialist for treatment, he or she will refer you to an orthodontist.

What is cosmetic dentistry?

Cosmetic dentistry is the art and science of designing wonderful smiles. It involves all aspects of general dentistry with a special emphasis to assure that individual teeth, as well as your smile, look their very best. It is essential to seek a cosmetic dentist with experience and care.

Should I consider cosmetic dentistry?

Look carefully at your smile. If you feel it could be better, you should consider cosmetic dentistry. Having a beautiful smile goes deeper than appearances. It gives you confidence. It will give you an edge in your everyday activities - improving your professional and personal image.

What types of problems does cosmetic dentistry solve?

If your teeth are dark or worn and make you look older, if gaps or chips make you feel self-conscious, or if crooked or discolored teeth stop you from smiling fully, cosmetic dentistry can help. The negative effects of abnormal gum tissue or out-of-date dental treatment are also problems that can be corrected with cosmetic dentistry. How long does it take to get a new smile? Although each case is unique, some new smiles are completed in a single visit.

Can I afford cosmetic dentistry?

Cosmetic dentistry offers many different options. Some patients require treatments that are relatively easy and inexpensive. Others need more extensive procedures to reach their goals. Questions are always answered and fees are discussed before treatment begins. Financing is also available.

What is Instant Orthodontics?

Instant Orthodontics is a procedure that straightens teeth using bonded porcelain veneers or crowns instead of braces. It can close large gaps between your teeth and correct overcrowding in as little as one visit to the office. The teeth also become naturally stronger by the bonded porcelain veneers. These veneers are placed above or just below the gum line, and help keep the gum tissue healthy. 

What is a porcelain inlay/onlay?

A porcelain inlay or onlay is a piece of porcelain that fits into or onto the tooth. It holds the tooth together and makes the tooth stronger while keeping the tooth looking natural.

Is teeth whitening harmful to my teeth?

How long does it usually last? Teeth whitening is not harmful to the teeth in any way. It simply removes stains from the teeth that may be caused by coffee, teas, tobacco, food and tartar. A very small percentage of patients do report sensitivity after bleaching, but is often completely reversible. Depending on how well you maintain your teeth and the type of habits you have, it may last a very long time.

How long do veneers and crowns last?

How long veneers or crowns last depends on many different factors such as care at home, how well you keep follow up visits to your dentist, as well as the quality of the crown or veneer.

What is laser dentistry?

There are a few dental procedures in which a laser can be used. Laser dentistry can be used for teeth whitening, surgery on the gums, and restorative materials. Laser dentistry requires a very skilled dentist. It is important to talk to a dentist with experience in laser dentistry.

What is implant dentistry?

Like cosmetic dentistry, implant dentistry is an art and science of designing beautiful smiles. Patients who have gaps in there teeth often times have a lower confidence level. It can also affect a patient's ability to speak and chew normally. A resolution for this problem is having a dental implant replace the missing tooth by implanting it into the patient's jawbone. A dental implant is an artificial root and tooth. They look and feel like natural teeth.

Is it okay for existing porcelain crowns or laminates to be bleached?

Yes, there is no need to worry because porcelain does not change color when exposed to dental bleach.

How long should bonding last?

Bonding lasts 3-5 years, depending on wear and tear.

How long do porcelain laminates last?

In excess of 10 years, when properly maintained.

Why do people choose porcelain laminates over bonding?

Laminates look more realistic, do not stain, feel more natural, and are stronger.

When do you need to see a periodontist?

When local gum inflammation cannot be controlled by a hygienist and residual pockets that cannot be maintained are left around the teeth.

Can porcelain laminates or crowns give me lip support?

Yes, if they are built out with bulk, provided it does not interfere with function and local biology.

How do you get rid of spaces between teeth?

With porcelain laminates or bonding. Crowns may be used on more severe cases.

Does it hurt to have teeth prepared for laminates?

No, it is a painless, two-visit procedure. Local anesthesia can be given to highly sensitive patients, but is usually not necessary.

What are the advantages of laminates versus orthodontic treatment?

Orthodontic treatment takes 18 months to 2 years while porcelain laminates correct crooked teeth in two visits.

Are cosmetic procedures covered by insurance?

Unfortunately, dental insurance does not usually cover cosmetic dental procedures

There have been many modern advancements in dentistry. Your smile is one of the most important elements to your face, and cosmetic dentistry provides you with the best smile possible.

Cosmetic dentistry is a field that works on improving the look of a smile. Whitening teeth, repairing chips or breaks, or replacing outdated restorations is included.

Is cosmetic dentistry expensive?
Cosmetic dentistry is almost always an elective procedure, which means that the cosmetic dentistry procedure you would like will not be covered by insurance.  Fortunately, our dentist provides various payment and affordable financing options. 

Also, the cost of cosmetic dentistry depends on the type of procedure that you are having performed.  During your initial consultation, our dentist will discuss with you what results you would like to see, and what treatments or procedures will be necessary to produce those results.  You will be able to discuss the cost of the procedure and how you will pay for it also.

Can cosmetic dentistry close gaps in my smile?
Yes.  In the past the only way to close a gap in your smile was years of commitment to orthodontic work.  Our dentist can use porcelain veneers, dental bonding, or other cosmetic dentistry techniques to close the gaps in your smile.  Our dentist also provides Invisalign at A Unique Dental Experience® so that you can close the gaps in your teeth without cosmetic dentistry.

Can cosmetic dentistry correct the look of my gums?
Yes.  Many people come to A Unique Dental Experience® because we provide laser gum contouring.  If you have gums that cover too much of your teeth, you may want to have our dentist contour your gums so that more of your teeth show when you smile.

Can I replace my older metal restorations with tooth-colored restorations?

Most definitely. Our dentist promotes tooth-colored restorations for all his dental work. He loves to replace your outdated dental work with more durable and better looking tooth-colored restorations. Tooth colored restorations are porcelain veneers, dental bonding, porcelain fillings, and much more.
 

What is cosmetic dentistry?

Cosmetic dentistry refers to all the procedures used to improve one's smile. Porcelain veneers, bridges and crowns, teeth whitening. bonding and white fillings are all included in this specialty.

How do I know if cosmetic dentistry is right for me?

First, take a look at your smile. If you don’t like what you see (discoloration, crooked or missing teeth, etc.), then we recommend you schedule a consultation. We can discuss your options so you can make an informed decision about cosmetic dentistry and whether it is something you want to pursue.

Can I have my old silver fillings replaced even if they aren’t falling out?

It is definitely more appealing to see white when you smile rather than the silver fillings so many people have. Your silver fillings usually last 5 to 8 years and will eventually need to be replaced. If your primary concern is the color, and if the filling is in good shape, there are other options such as white fillings or porcelain inlays.

I have a cavity that needs filling. Is there an alternative to the silver fillings?

White fillings are quickly replacing the old silver fillings that are part mercury. Although both kinds of fillings serve the same purpose, white fillings are more cosmetically appealing.

The only thing wrong with my smile is my yellow teeth. What can I do?

We offer several different teeth whitening options that can be done in our office or in the privacy of your own home. To determine which option is best suited for your needs, we recommend you contact our office to schedule an initial consultation.

What is the difference between a crown and a bridge?

Both crowns and bridges are referred to as restorative dentistry. They are used to return your teeth to their desired look and stability.

• A crown is used when a single tooth is damaged
• A bridge is used when more than one tooth is missing

Crowns and bridges both add stability to the surrounding teeth and give your smile a more beautiful look.

Do porcelain veneers cover gaps in my smile?

Cosmetic dentistry is a dental treatment that improves the health and beauty of one's smile. Almost every dental procedure contains two specific elements. They are anesthetics and function. Good quality cosmetic dentistry uses both of these elements into consideration. One will be assured that they will not only look great, but also enjoy hassle free and long term results.

What are some examples of cosmetic dentistry procedures?

Cosmetic dentistry covers a multitude of procedures from smile teeth whitening to repairing, straightening, replacing or enhancing the appearance of one's teeth and smile. Most common is the use of Cosmetic Veneers or Laminates. These thin, but durable restorations are much more conservative to the natural tooth than traditional crowns, and have become a very popular way to enhance a smile. In certain procedures dental bonding can be a way to shape teeth as well. .

Why would someone need or be interested in cosmetic dentistry?

Cosmetic dentistry provides more than just a beautiful smile and a healthy mouth. According to the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry (AACD), cosmetic dentistry has also been shown to improve a person's overall health and emotional well-being. An improved smile can boost a person's self-image, making them more confident in their daily lives. Cosmetic dentistry is for anyone who desires to improve the quality of their smile, their oral health and their quality of life. The very essence of cosmetic dentistry almost always improves one's bite, health and function.

How has technology improved in cosmetic dentistry?

Cosmetic dental techniques have advanced dramatically over the last decade. The qualities of materials such as porcelain and composite resins have improved, giving a more lifelike appearance. And, where gum-tissue surgery and contouring was once performed with scalpels, lasers now provide fast, non-surgical results.

Braces or veneers?

If you are happy with the shape and color of your teeth, then orthodontic teeth straightening may be a good option for you. If you want to whiten and enhance the shape of your teeth as well as straighten them, then cosmetic dentistry will give you the results you are looking for while saving you time and money. Clear teeth aligners provide a great alternative to traditional braces. Invisalign is the latest generation of "invisible" teeth aligners. Though not always necessary, some people will choose to undergo some teeth straightening prior to being fitted with cosmetic veneers.

What is a cosmetic veneer?

Modern metal-free dentistry has evolved to a point where we can be much more conservative with tooth preparation. A veneer is essentially a conservative crown. Rather than encompassing the entire tooth, a cosmetic veneer, essentially covers the visible part of a tooth preserving a large amount of the natural tooth structure. Veneers can straighten, lengthen and whiten teeth to provide the desired smile and bite. Each veneered tooth must be shaped. This means that an outer layer of the natural tooth structure is removed to allow space for veneer placement.

How long do veneers last?

When "seated" correctly, veneers are strong and can last for many years, even a lifetime with good oral care.

Will veneers eventually stain?

Porcelain veneers are non-porous and will not stain or discolor.

Is there a difference in quality among various types of veneers and crowns?

Yes. Aesthetic dentistry is the ultimate blend of art and science. If quality and service are important to you, look for experience and proven results. There are many different materials used in veneers and crowns.

What is bonding and how is it different from a veneer? Bonding is done by placing tooth-like material onto the tooth to build it up and/or to alter its shape. Over time the bonded portion of a tooth will change color as compared to the natural, un-bonded portion of the tooth. The advantage of bonding is that it is an ultra-conservative way to restore a tooth and is completed in one visit. The disadvantage is that it will discolor over time and is more prone to breakage than a veneer.

What is an all-porcelain crown or veneer?

Many restorations are designed with a metal lining covered with porcelain (porcelain fused to metal or PFM). They appear "flat" because the metal does not let light pass through like a natural tooth does. There is often a dark line next to the gum line that is undesirable (often the metal irritates the adjacent gum tissue in the form of an allergic reaction). Always inquire! Dentists will say that it is porcelain. And it is...on the outside.  When properly seated, they are as strong as or stronger than their metal predecessors. And the appearance is strikingly similar to a natural tooth, allowing light to pass through (referred to as translucency).

What can be done for excessive gum tissue?

Sometimes people have too much gum tissue or there is an asymmetry of the tissue across the smile. The solution is simple. A specialized soft-tissue laser can remove the excessive gum tissue. There is always a margin of tissue that can safely be removed to further enhance a smile. This non-surgical and pain-free procedure is completed in a matter of minutes.

Is cosmetic dental work expensive?

Cosmetic dental work is probably not as expensive as you think. The cost of cosmetic dentistry depends on how much you want or need. Like any cosmetic process, costs will vary with the amount of product or services you desire. A skilled cosmetic dentist can explain various fees and the best procedure for you. Also, some cosmetic dental options are covered by insurance if "need" can be established.

Cosmetic dentistry focuses on creating beautiful smiles. Procedures include porcelain veneers, non-metal crowns and bridges, tooth-colored fillings, implants, and power tooth whitening.

Who would be a good candidate for Cosmetic Dentistry?

Individuals who are unhappy with their present smile. Their smiles may be a result of crooked teeth, discoloration of teeth from stains, such as coffee, tea or red wine (yellow color), or tetracycline stains (brown/gray color). It may be ideal for those who prefer an ideal smile with immediate results.

When should I consider Cosmetic Dentistry?

When you feel that you need improvements on your smile. Cosmetic dental procedures will change your entire appearance. If you are unhappy about the color, shape, or size of your teeth, want to close a gap, or simply cover up imperfections, Cosmetic Dentistry is a great solution. Replacing your old silver fillings with high esthetic tooth-colored fillings will take only minutes. Porcelain Veneers and Non-metal Crowns and Bridges are customized in a matter of days. Or simply whitening your existing smile can be accomplished in a matter of minutes.

Will having Cosmetic Dentistry be expensive?

Improving your appearance, rejuvenating your youth, and building your self-confidence will completely change your life. How much would you pay to have this? Having a perfect smile is priceless. Our goal is to provide the best quality of dentistry for our clients in the most pleasant environment both clinically and financially. We offer various, interest free payment plans as well third party payments.

How many visits will it take? How long is each procedure?

Porcelain Veneers: The entire time involved is approximately 7-10 days, in addition, rush services are available upon request. Three separate visits are required. First, initial impressions and photos of your present teeth are taken. Then, our laboratory specialist will fabricate an ideal smile wax up for preview at your next visit. During the second visit, your teeth will be prepared and temporary restorations are fabricated and placed. Together with Dr. Huang, the color and shape of your teeth will be selected and a final impression is taken. During the final visit, your customized porcelain veneers will be placed on permanently and you will have a beautiful and natural smile.

Tooth Colored Filling: Placement is accomplished in one office visit and the procedure length is less than 20 minutes.

Power Bleaching: Our in-office power whitening system will give you pearly white teeth in less than one hour. On an average, your teeth will lighten 6 to 10 shades. No additional visits are necessary.

Will I experience any pain?

Due to technological innovations, equipments such as micro-air abrasions and computerized injection systems will further minimize the sensitivity and discomfort during all cosmetic procedures.

When can I eat and drink after a procedure?

You can eat and drink immediately afterwards as long as you feel comfortable.

Choosing a good cosmetic dentist is very important. Ask the dentist about his or her training and credentials, along with the experience they have in smile makeover dentistry. Currently, cosmetic dentistry is not considered a specialty such as orthodontics or periodontics. But it is a branch of dentistry that requires thorough knowledge of technology, science, and an artistic eye. Dentists that are committed to cosmetic dentistry have undergone through specific training, credentials, experience, and affiliations. Most cosmetic dentists have a portfolio. The dentist's skills and style can be discovered by looking at their portfolio of before and after photographs of their previous patients.

How long will it take to complete my cosmetic treatment?

Each situation is unique and every client has their own particular issues that have to be addressed. However, on the average, bleaching will take about 1 ½ hours; crown and bridge will take 2 visits to complete and laminates 2 visits to complete. In cases where 2 visits are required, such as laminates, custom temporaries are fabricated that will look better than the teeth you came in with and will be designed to actually look very close to the final porcelain laminates that will be made for you.

How can I get an idea of how I would look with an improved smile?

By listening to what you want and taking notes we are able to mentally form a picture of what your smile can look like. To show you what we are seeing in our mind, we take a digital photograph of your face. We then use graphic artist software to generate a computerized image showing you with various smile enhancements, such as whitening, shape and length changes. Another way we can give you an idea of what you would look like with an improved smile is to fabricate a “wax-up” of your new smile. This is when we do the laminates on a duplicate model of your smile in order to see three dimensionally the changes in your smile. You can actually hold your before and after smiles in your hands to compare.

What can I do about my uneven teeth?

Are the teeth overlapping each other? Are there spaces between the teeth? Is the gum line too low or too high? Have the teeth worn away because of grinding? Depending on the answers to these questions and numerous others a different approach may be necessary to correct the uneven look. After a smile consultation with our office we can get a general feel of what’s the best approach. Ultimately to accurately plan for the end result we will perform a smile makeover analysis.

Is there a standard beautiful smile for all people?

As many people that exist, there are that many beautiful smiles- we are all unique and the beauty of our smile should and does reflect this. This is what makes cosmetic dentistry truly an art and enjoyable creative challenge! Each person is different and their case must be planned carefully. The design of a beautiful and natural smile must consider the sex of the individual s well as be in proportion with the gum line, the lips and the construction of the face of the individual.

How long does cosmetic dentistry last?

This is a very important question and one that is asked of us many times. There are three things that can have an impact on longevity;

• Quality of the treatment. Delivering the best outcome requires a high level of meticulous attention to detail. For instance, one of the procedures we do frequently in our office is altering the smile with porcelain veneers. There are literally 100’s of steps along the way and if one of them is overlooked it can have an impact on longevity.
•  Condition of the teeth that are considered for improvements and the level of forces that are placed on them. (i.e. grinding). We recommend custom fitted guards fabricated to help protect teeth from excessive wear. Home care and eating habits are critical in maintaining a beautiful smile. It’s important to avoid rough crunchy foods and biting on objects. Natural teeth can get just as abused in the came way if you are not careful. Generally meticulous attention to oral hygiene is very important. To estimate time frames for different procedures we recommend you come in for a consult.
•  Home care and eating habits are critical in maintaining a beautiful smile. It’s important to avoid rough crunchy foods and biting on objects. Natural teeth can get just as abused in the came way if you are not careful. Generally meticulous attention to oral hygiene is very important. To estimate time frames for different procedures we recommend you come in for a consult.

I have a gap between my two front teeth. How can it be closed?

There are a number of ways to correct this problem, which may include one or more of the following: orthodontics, porcelain veneers, crowns and bonding. Click on our before and after photo gallery to see examples of clients with gaps in their teeth that we corrected.

What can I do to change my teeth that are too small to make them bigger?

There are a number of ways to correct this problem, including porcelain veneers, crowns and bonding. Click on our Before and After photo gallery to see examples of clients with teeth that we made bigger.

How can I correct severely discolored teeth from tetracycline?

Tetracycline is an antibiotic used to treat a number of illnesses in adults and children. It causes severe staining in teeth if used in growing children and sometimes with prolonged use in the young adult. The teeth have a gray or dark brown appearance to them and often times dark bands run across the front of the teeth. Typically these teeth do not respond well to whitening procedures. Porcelain veneers are a truly beautiful answer to this problem. A once dark and unattractive smile can be a brilliant and beautiful white one.

I have buck teeth that stick out. Is there anything that can be done?

Absolutely. And sometimes the solution may be as simple as recontouring and reshaping the teeth which will take one painless visit to complete. Some situations may require braces with Invisalign to correct. Many instances of buck teeth have been corrected with porcelain laminates. In rare instances we may to do a combination of Invisalign repositioning of teeth and porcelain veneers if the shapes of the teeth are not harmonious with each other and the facial proportions. Since each situation is unique, we’ll have a better idea what is necessary after a cosmetic consult.

How do I know if I cosmetic dentistry will help me?

One should ask themselves the following questions if cosmetic dentistry is the right approach for you: You want your teeth to be whiter or straighter? Do you have broken or chipped teeth? Are you happy with your smile? Do you see black margins along your existing crowns? Are you afraid to smile in photos? If you answered yes to one of these questions, consider visiting a cosmetic dentist.

Is it a lot of work and how much is the cost?

Like any cosmetic process, the cost of work depends on how much you are going to get done. It is inevitable that the cost will increase when you get more services. Your cosmetic dentist will go through all the prices and the best procedures with you. Surprisingly, cosmetic dental work isn't as expensive as you think. Investment in cosmetic dentistry is definitely worth it. Cosmetic dentistry will improve your dental appearance and your self esteem.

How can I make my discolored teeth whiter?

Tooth whitening, the process for lightening discolored teeth, can be accomplished in the dentist's office or with dentist-supervised, at-home systems. Teeth can be whitened to the desired shade over several visits. At-home systems should be individually fitted by a cosmetic dentist.

Most of my teeth are bunched too near the front of my mouth. Is there a way to get rid of that crowded look?

With removable orthodontics, cosmetic contouring, and/or bonding and veneering, teeth can be reshaped and polished for long-lasting results: a stronger, less crowded-looking appearance.

My back teeth have a lot of silver and gold. Is there a less obvious way to fill cavities?

New advances in tooth-colored porcelain and composite materials not only allow fillings to go unnoticed, but are stronger and more wear-resistant than silver and gold.

What is Computer Imaging?

During our consultation we will discuss your treatment plan by reviewing your dental needs through our intraoral camera, this device will show in your teeth blown up into full digital images for your better understanding of the procedures.

There's a big gap between my two front teeth. Can that be changed?

Yes. Bonded veneers can close gaps and help create the smile you desire. Bonded resins generally require one office visit, while porcelain veneering takes two. Bonded veneers, along with good oral hygiene and a healthy lifestyle, are effective ways to enhance a smile. A cosmetic dentist can explain the various techniques and help determine which is the best suited to your specific needs.

Is it possible to get a gorgeous smile in just one visit?

We have a 1-2-3 step procedure for smile makeovers. On the second visit, our employees will replace the look of your teeth with temporary veneers so that you can walk out with a new bright smile in one visit.