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Question - What is cosmetic dentistry?
Answer - Traditionally, the
term "cosmetic" refers to a procedure that improves
the appearance. For successful, long-lasting
results, it is crucial to design and engineer the
mouth's "function" as well as improve appearance. We
refer to this combined approach as Aesthetic
Dentistry.
Question - Why is the bite important?
Answer - The bite must be
stable and balanced so there are no points of
excessive stress that could potentially cause
ceramic restorations or teeth to break, or cause
some type of joint dysfunction.
Question - What can be done about a "gummy" smile?
Answer - If you
show too much gum when you smile, there is a minor
surgical procedure called a "gum lift" that reduces
the amount of gum that shows.
Question - Are tooth-colored fillings better than
silver/mercury fillings?
Answer - Generally, yes. Aside from
the unappealing appearance of silver fillings, they
can cause teeth to fracture over time. However, the
dentist needs to know where and how to use the
tooth-colored material. As a simple rule, the
smaller the filling, the better it is to use
tooth-colored material. As fillings get bigger,
ceramic restorations are needed.
Question - Why does the gum around crowns look purple?
Answer - This
can occur for several reasons: the crown may not fit
well, it may be too far under the gum, or it may
have a metal base that blocks light. Teeth are like
little fiber optic units. When light hits them, it
illuminates the teeth and the surrounding gum tissue
to give it that healthy pink glow. Metal blocks the
light, causing the tissue to look dark. Crowns that
are all ceramic are best for a natural appearance.
Question - What are the differences between bonding and
veneers?
Answer - "Bonding" is an older term that refers to
applying a composite resin as a "veneer" directly to
the teeth. Veneers are usually thought of as being
made from a ceramic material that is "bonded" to the
teeth. Less durable than ceramic, resin will stain
more readily and will need replacing more
frequently. Ceramic veneers are generally more
expensive than resin due to additional laboratory
fees.
Question - How can I get straighter teeth without braces?
Answer - This can often be accomplished with the use of
ceramic veneers to give the appearance of straighter
teeth.
Question - How can I close the gaps between my teeth?
Answer - Depending on the situation, gaps can be closed
either with orthodontic treatment or by bonding or
ceramic veneers. This requires analysis to make sure
the teeth are properly proportioned and fit within
the frame of the lips and the size of the face.
Question - How can missing teeth be replaced?
Answer - Generally,
there are two ways to replace missing teeth: either
by a removable denture of some kind or by a bridge
or implants that stay in place in the mouth.
Treatment depends on the number of teeth missing;
the condition of the teeth adjacent to the space;
the quality and quantity of bone where the teeth are
missing; whether or not there is periodontal
disease; and the overall health of the mouth.
Question - Why are night-time appliances (mouth guards)
necessary?
Answer - If designed correctly, night-time
appliances (mouthguards) help keep teeth from
moving, protect ceramic restorations, and protect
teeth from wear damage caused by grinding or
clenching.
Question - How long will aesthetic dental treatment last?
Answer
- Longevity varies from person to person depending on
oral habits, home care, and compliance with
utilizing the precision bite stabilizer. We do our
best to deliver high-quality treatment that will
last many years.
Question - Are any of the procedures covered by insurance?
Answer - Except for cases involving fractures or other
pathological conditions, there is rarely insurance
coverage.
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