What is Cosmetic Dentistry?
Cosmetic Dentistry is a general term involving the enhancement or beautification of the dentition, mouth and smile. This must be done with health and function in mind. It does not just involve the upper six anteriors, but the full complement of 32 teeth and can encompass anything from a single resin filling to full dental reconstruction.

What specific procedures are included under the cosmetic dentistry umbrella?
The list includes both restorative procedures and prosthodontic procedures. Restorative procedures include: porcelain veneers, dental crowns, inlays, onlays, composite restoration and bonding. Prosthodontic procedures are: aesthetic recontouring, ridge augmentation, gum leveling surgery and other advanced periodontal procedures.

What part does prevention play in cosmetic dentistry?
Preventative dentistry is crucial for the maintenance of our teeth. Because many of the cosmetic restoration are highly glazed porcelain, regular follow up is imperative to maintain their high luster.

Are cosmetic procedures covered by my insurance? (also see Financing)
Every situation is different and only after the initial consultation can our office manager determine what may or may not be covered by insurance. Many cosmetic procedures can actually be performed as standard repair and preventive maintenance procedures that are at least partially covered.

Are composites (white restorations) a viable alternative to amalgam fillings?
Composites placed with exacting technique get as close as we have ever been to restoring the tooth to its original strength in the most conservative fashion. The composites are a very hard polymer that bonds to the tooth to hold the tooth together. Amalgams have several disadvantages. Amalgam is a metal that expands and contracts with hot, cold and biting. All of these can weaken the teeth and over time make them prone to fracturing. Amalgam also contains mercury which is known to be quite toxic. While no clear link has been found to indicate negative affects of amalgam mercury, it is now widely accepted to use modern materials for all new and replacement fillings.

What is Cosmetic Bonding?
Bonding is the application of a composite material to your teeth to correct many imperfections including chips, stains, discoloration, crooked teeth and gaps between teeth. The composite resin is bonded and sculpted then hardened with a laser-like light and polished. In most cases, bonding can be accomplished in on visit.

What are Porcelain Veneers?
Porcelain veneers or porcelain laminates are very thin, form-fitted pieces of porcelain that are bonded to your teeth. They are very fracture and stain resistant and are the most conservative alternative in aesthetic enhancement procedures. They solve many cosmetic problems such as chipped, gapped, stained and crooked teeth. Veneers should be considered first, prior to any crowning procedure.

What is a Crown?
A crown is a full coverage restoration made of porcelain or gold. Crowns are used when a tooth has been broken down or fractured many times because of old fillings.

Does Bleaching really work?
Modern bleaching procedures for teeth whitening are very predictable and safe. They can be done in the dentist office or at home. No matter which method you choose, occasional touch up is needed. Usually, your teeth can be lightened 8-10 shades, depending on the cause of the staining. Color charts are used to confirm and compare results. There are many over-the-counter whitening systems available, as well. However, they do not provide custom trays that allow the bleaching gel to apply uniformly and can be slower and quite unpredictable.

What is BriteSmile?
BriteSmile utilizes the most current technologies available for teeth whitening. BriteSmile is safe, effective, affordable and can produce very significant results in just one office visit. The procedure, incorporating a patented light-activated gel, is completely painless.

With cosmetic procedures, how white do you want your teeth to be?
In adolescence we generally have a white bright smile but over the years our teeth pick up stains and become discolored. When undergoing cosmetic procedures, the question is how pearly white do we want to make your teeth. Truly white teeth on older individuals is a sign they have undergone some type of cosmetic dentistry. We strive to give your smile a sense of realism. You will attain a beautiful aesthetic outcome while avoiding the appearance of an obvious procedure.

What is TMJ?
Simply put, TMJ or Tempromandibular Joint Disorder refers to any medical and dental conditions resulting from the misalignment of the two joints that attach the jaw to the skull. Problems in this area can be the source of severe pain in your teeth, jaw and even be the cause of migraine headaches, arthritis, trauma and other soft tissue related problems.

What are some of the symptoms of TMJ?
Most commonly, people will experience:

• Facial pain
• Jaw joint pain, especially when chewing & yawning
• Limited movement in the jaw or locking
• Headaches and ringing in the ears
• Pain behind the eyes
• Clenching of the teeth and sensitive teeth
• Uncomfortable bite

How is TMJ diagnosed and treated?
Fortunately, today's neuro-muscular dentistry uses technology and computer diagnostics make it possible to accurately diagnose the physiologic position of the jaw and the muscles that help it function. This same technology allows us to determine the proper position and then, using new neuro-muscular dentistry techniques, restore proper position and function.

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