Cosmetic Dentistry
Cosmetic Dentistry
The increasing awareness on the health and look of a patient’s smile has fueled the desire for many to seek out dentistry solutions not only as a medical necessity, but for cosmetic reasons as well. Cosmetic dentistry can help you have the healthy, straight, beautiful white smile you’ve been waiting for!
Invisalign
Invisalign® offers an almost invisible aligning system that straightens teeth quickly. Invisalign® contains no metal and consists of a series of custom-made aligning trays. During the process, your Penticton dentist will change the trays every few weeks to fit the new tooth configuration.
Invisalign® corrects the same dental problems as traditional metal braces; the only difference is that Invisalign® trays are almost invisible to the naked eye, and can be removed at will.
The trays should be worn constantly, except when eating and drinking. It is important to remove the trays when consuming food or drink because food can become trapped between the tray and the teeth, causing tooth decay. They can also be temporarily removed for important occasions – meaning that treatment duration is patient-controlled.
Some problems that are commonly corrected with Invisalign®:
Overcrowding
This occurs when there is too little space for the teeth to align normally in the mouth. Overcrowding can cause tooth decay and increase the likelihood of gum disease.
Large gaps between teeth
This can sometimes occur because teeth are missing or because the jaw continues to grow abnormally.
Crossbite
This common dental problem occurs when one or multiple upper teeth bite inside the lower teeth. As a consequence, uneven wear can lead to bone erosion and gum disease.
Overbite
This problem occurs when the upper teeth partially, or completely cover, the lower teeth. Eventually, jaw pain and TMD issues may occur.
Underbite
This is the inverse of the overbite; the lower teeth partially, or completely cover, the upper teeth. Eventually, jaw pain and TMD issues can occur.
What advantages does Invisalign® offer over traditional braces and veneers?
There is no doubt that Invisalign® aligning trays have revolutionized orthodontics. A great number of people report complete satisfaction with both the Invisalign® treatment and the stunning results. It is both comfortable and effective.
Give us a call today and schedule your orthodontic consultation or learn more about Invisalign!
Porcelain Veneers
Veneers are very thin pieces of durable, tooth shaped porcelain that are custom made (for shape and colour) by a professional dental laboratory. They are bonded onto the front of teeth to create a beautiful and attractive smile.
Veneers are very durable and will last many years, giving you a beautiful long lasting smile. As with most dental restorations, veneers are not permanent and may someday need replacement.
Veneers can completely reshape your teeth and smile. They can often be alternatives to crowns and the ideal solution in treating many dental conditions or for aesthetic purposes.
Veneers usually require two visits to complete, with little or no anesthesia required during the procedure. The teeth are prepared by lightly buffing and shaping the surface to allow for the thickness of the veneer. A mold or impression of the teeth is taken and a shade (colour) will then be chosen by you and you Penticton family dentist.
On the second visit, the teeth will be cleansed with special liquids to achieve a durable bond. Bonding cement is then placed between the tooth and veneer and a curing light is used to harden and set the bond.
You will receive care instructions for veneers. Proper brushing, flossing and regular dental visits will prolong the life of your new veneers.
Teeth Whitening
Teeth whitening is a simple, non-invasive dental treatment used to change the colour of natural tooth enamel and is an ideal way to enhance the beauty of your smile.
The most popular method is using a home teeth whitening system that will whiten teeth dramatically. This type of teeth whitening usually requires two visits. At the first appointment, impressions (molds) will be made of your teeth to fabricate custom, clear plastic, trays. At your second appointment, you will try on the trays for proper fit, and instructions will be given on using the whitening product.
The trays are worn with special whitening solution either twice a day for 30 minutes or overnight for a couple of weeks depending on the degree of staining and desired level of whitening. It is normal to experience tooth sensitivity during the time you are whitening your teeth, but it will subside shortly after you have stopped. You will receive in depth care instructions for your teeth and trays, and be encouraged to visit your dentist regularly to help maintain a beautiful, healthy, white smile.
Since teeth whitening only works on natural tooth enamel, it is important to evaluate the need for replacement of any old fillings, crowns, etc. Replacement will be done after whitening to ensure they match the new colour. Teeth whitening is not permanent. A touch-up may be needed periodically, and more frequently if you smoke, drink coffee, tea, or wine.
