Cosmetic Dentistry

Overview of Cosmetic Dentistry

Cosmetic dentistry in Lexington, South Carolina involves the identification and correction of any flaw (perceived by the patient) of the teeth or gums. Our dentists use a number of materials and methods to improve the appearance of your smile. Occasionally, you may be referred to an orthodontist or periodontist (gum specialist) to help us achieve our goals to make you happier with your teeth and gums.

Bonding

Bonding in cosmetic dental care is accomplished by way of tooth-colored composite resin. This dental plastic is directly placed and light-cured, requiring only one appointment. It is then shaped to provide natural contours or even enlarge teeth. We can close some spaces or give greater length. We are able to match colors very well. Bonding can last for years. Other benefits include affordability and complete reversibility. For the most part, this technique is very conservative of tooth structure, as it is mostly additive dentistry. It has the disadvantage of gathering stains and can loose its polish over time.

Veneers

Veneers are made of ultrathin porcelain/ceramic materials and are the best cosmetic restorations in dentistry! Your dentist will plan and design your smile in wax on stone models and you will fully participate to approve of the final result. Temporary veneers will serve as prototypes. When the veneers return from the lab, usually in 3-4 weeks, they will be tried in and then bonded into place. Once bonded, these restorations become very strong and have proven durability.

Veneers are the best technology we have to restore and enhance what nature gave us. The are beautiful and will not stain or loose their luster over time. They can be added to teeth without any reduction of tooth structure, but better results occurr when  the teeth are prepared/ reduced to receive the porcelain. They differ from crowns in that less reduction is required, typically just the fronts and incisal edges.

Crowns and Bridges

Bridges and Crowns in cosmetic dentistry are all-porcelain, full coverage restorations. They too are beautiful and durable. Special skill and attention is required of the lab technician to achieve optimal results. They can be every bit as satisfying as veneers, but more tooth preparation is required. A bridge is a combination of multiple crowns that are splinted together to restore and replace one or more missing teeth. These restorations are fixed, cemented and feel completely natural.

For more information about cosmetic dentistry in Lexington, South Carolina, contact us here.