Cosmetic Dentistry Questions
Springfield, Holyoke, Longmeadow, and Wilbraham, MA Cosmetic Dentist
What are porcelain veneers?
They are wafer-thin shells of ceramic custom made and bonded to the front surface of any problem teeth. Teeth that are chipped, broken or cracked can be quickly and easily fixed with porcelain veneers. Apart from the damage arising from decay and gum disease, an accident or injury can cause tooth damage any time.
Veneers can also correct teeth that are:
- Widely spaced
- Severely discolored
- Crooked
- Narrow or short
Am I a good candidate for a smile makeover?
If you have good dental health, then yes, you could probably go ahead with a smile makeover. Any gum disease would first need to be corrected, as good dental health is the basis for an attractive smile.
Each smile makeover is individual and you and your cosmetic dentist would first discuss the options. Many people include porcelain veneers in their smile makeover and many include teeth whitening. There are other options too such as replacing your old metal fillings with tooth-colored fillings and replacing gold crowns with dental crowns made of white porcelain.
How long do the results of cosmetic dentistry procedures last?
With proper dental care, porcelain veneers can last 10 years or more. Dental bonding is slightly less durable, lasting an average of five years. Teeth whitening may last a year or much more if you avoid highly pigmented foods and drinks and go for regular professional cleaning. Dental implants are permanent. Dental crowns of porcelain may last a lifetime. Most cosmetic dentistry gives you very long-lasting results but always there is the proviso that you must take good daily care of your teeth and gums to prevent bacterial destruction.
What cosmetic dentistry procedures can replace missing teeth?
The traditional methods of replacing a missing tooth have been dental bridges supported by dental crowns on the two neighboring teeth. If multiple teeth were missing, full or partial dentures were typically recommended. However, cosmetic dentists now also offer the permanent option of dental implants. Implants are artificial tooth roots that can anchor a bridge or single replacement teeth. Four implants can hold your entire upper or lower arch of new teeth and eight can hold a mouthful.
Why have professional tooth whitening when I can get whitening kits at the drugstore?
Professional tooth whitening is far more effective and safer than over-the-counter kits. At Baystate Dental, we use the BriteSmile system for dramatic in-office whitening and we also offer take-home kits if you would rather whiten your teeth more gradually. Prior to in-office whitening, we will thoroughly clean your teeth and remove all plaque and tartar so the teeth are a clean slate on which the whitening gel can work its magic.
If you choose at-home whitening, we will have custom trays made for a snug fit over your teeth. This is one of the reasons why store-bought kits are ineffective – the trays do not fit your teeth well and the gel becomes diluted with saliva. You then swallow it, which is not part of the tooth-whitening plan.
Cosmetic dentistry today is all about options. At Baystate Dental, we will provide you with complete information about all of the procedures available so you can make a well-informed decision.
If you have additional questions about cosmetic dentistry or would like to schedule an initial consultation with our team of Baystate Dental cosmetic dentists in East Longmeadow, Longmeadow, Wilbraham, West Springfield or Springfield, MA, please contact our office today.
- Baystate Dental has given me the confidence in myself to seek treatment without shame and provided me with constant encouragement to come back, fully dressed with my smile, in order to make my smile the best it can be. - Samantha P., Brockton, MA
- I can finally smile now without any broken teeth. It is a great feeling to go for my cleaning and not need anything else!
- Lisa C., Belchertown, MA - I have succeeded as a magician because of the smile they helped me achieve... without their help, my life would literally not be the same.
- Paul P., Springfield, MA - I really can't say "thank you" enough to everyone there but what I can say is I am a proud patient of Baystate Dental and always will be.
- Sara S., Ludlow, MA - When I found Baystate Dental PC, it was like hitting the jackpot! I have never experienced such great care, compassion and excellent customer service!
- Jody H., Hadley, MA - The preparation, time, knowledge and caring that I received at Baystate Dental was extraordinary and very promising.
- Debbie D., Belchertown, MA - From the moment I walk through the door, I feel relaxed. The waiting room is small and never busy and I am greeted right away with a smile.
- Donna S., Broad Brook, CT - My smile has been able to break language and cultural barriers and is the universal symbol of peace and friendship.
- Mark K., West Springfield, MA - I just want to thank you and your staff for one of the best dental visits we have ever experienced with our children ever!
- Guy and Krystle M.
