Top 5 Cosmetic Dentistry FAQ's

[Matt Comfort DDS]

Outlined below are some of the most frequently asked questions and their answers in the field of cosmetic dentistry, ideal for any cosmetic dentistry research.

1. Can whitening my teeth damage them? What are the effects?

With teeth whitening, your teeth will become more sensitive to cold, heat and sweets. But since it is a new technology, it's long term side effects are still unknown. Bleaching will probably have to be repeated in order to maintain your whitening.  An additional method to whiten teeth is using laser dentistry.  Using laser dentistry, a dentist will use the laser for a wide range of applications including teeth whitening.

2.  Using antibiotics as a child, now have resulted in darkened teeth. What can I do to make them white again?

Discoloration of your teeth is called intrinsic stain and can be treated very effectively with bleaching. Best option in this case is to ask your personal dentist on what the ideal solution is. For example, you might be suggested to place porcelain laminate veneers or crowns.

3. Why do people's teeth discolor upon aging? Is this just a part of aging?

Yes, it could be just a part of aging. The tooth surface becomes thin during your lifetime. With the thinning of the teeth, the underlying dentin will become exposed to the surface. Some people who are less motivated to do something about it, causing their oral hygiene to suffer.

4. I am a little scared about having laminates on my teeth. Does it hurt to have my teeth prepared for them? Can you tell me more about it?

It does not hurt a bit. Actually, laminates are a cosmetic dentistry procedure that will be done in just two visits to your professional dentist. You can also benefit from a local anesthesia if you are a highly sensitive patient. Local anesthesia is necessary in less then 40% of the cases.

5. I would like to know if there are advantages of laminates over orthodontic treatments. What is the time required for both of these cosmetic dentistry procedures?

These orthodontics and laminates are very different cosmetic dentistry procedures. If you choose orthodontics as a treatment option, you will typically have to wait more than a year to eighteen months for the treatment to be 100% completed. This, however is not the case with porcelain laminates. Porcelain laminates only require two visits to your dentist. This is more efficient for correct crooked teeth and much quicker than the orthodontic treatment.