General Information about Professional Teeth Whitening
Invisalign® Information
Invisalign® clear braces offer an innovative approach to orthodontic treatment. New technology makes it possible to avoid many of the disadvantages of traditional metal braces with the comfortable, transparent, removable Invisalign® system.
Treatment Overview
The Invisalign® system, also referred to as "clear braces" or "invisible braces," is an advanced orthodontic treatment system. For many patients, Invisalign® is an ideal alternative to conventional metal braces. Completely unlike dental braces composed of brackets and wires which are attached to the patient's teeth, the Invisalign® system achieves tooth straightening through a series of transparent, removable plastic aligners which fit snugly over the teeth.
Invisalign® aligners are nearly invisible. Constructed of a clear plastic exclusively created for the custom Invisalign® treatment plan developed by your cosmetic dentist, the aligners slip comfortably over the teeth. The aligners can also be removed for cleaning, making it much easier to maintain good dental hygiene throughout your treatment.
Treatment using Invisalign® consists of a sequence of aligners which are switched out about every two to three weeks. Every aligner is independently manufactured to precise calculations that gradually shift your teeth into place. And since your custom-made Invisalign® system is just that, custom made, you know you'll end up with a smile that truly fits your looks and goals.
Contact a Dentist
If you are ready to learn more about transforming your appearance with Invisalign®, contact our cosmetic dentistry center in Indianapolis today.
Smile Makeover FAQs
If you are concerned with the appearance of your smile, a smile makeover may be a good option for you. Using one or more cosmetic dentistry procedures, your dentist can help you achieve a beautiful, healthy smile.
What is a smile makeover?
A smile makeover utilizes one or more cosmetic dentistry procedures, such as teeth whitening, porcelain veneers, and dental implants, to improve the appearance and functionality of your smile. The treatments are customized to meet your individual dental health needs and goals.
How do you get started?
An initial consultation with a cosmetic dentist is the first step in the smile makeover process. Your dentist will start by examining your mouth and taking notes of obvious problem areas such as missing teeth, crooked teeth, or staining. As part of the examination, your dentist may utilize computer imaging to help show you how recommended procedures can be used to address your needs.
Will a smile makeover address existing dental health concerns?
Yes, as part of your smile makeover, your dentist will first want to address any existing dental health needs. If you have cavities, missing teeth, periodontal disease, or other concerns, it is important that these problems be corrected before proceeding with cosmetic enhancements. This will give you the foundation for a long-lasting, successful smile makeover.
For more information about using cosmetic dentistry procedures to achieve a brilliant new smile, please contact our practice today.
Teeth Whitening Information
Whitening your teeth can drastically improve the appearance of your smile and boost your self-esteem and confidence. Deciding which teeth whitening method is best for you can be hard, however, because there are so many options available. If you need fast teeth whitening results that are effective and long-lasting, professional teeth whitening performed by a cosmetic dentist is probably the best option. Professional teeth whitening can dramatically whiten your teeth several shades in as little as an hour.
Treatment Overview
During a professional teeth whitening treatment the cosmetic dentist will start by isolating the gum area before applying a hydrogen peroxide gel to the teeth. The treatment may use a laser or a special light to increase the whitening effect. After the treatment the gel is rinsed off and results can be seen right away.
Treatment Results
Professional teeth whitening is very effective. Most patients achieve whitening between six and ten shades and the results can last a long time with proper care. However, professional teeth whitening will not lighten crowns, white fillings, veneers, or other dental work.
Treatment Safety
Teeth whitening is an extremely safe cosmetic dentistry procedure. Few patients experience any side effects and the side effects that are commonly experienced are minor, such as teeth sensitivity that usually disappears within a day of the procedure.
Before you choose to use a teeth whitening treatment you should visit a dentist for a check up and cleaning. If you have any other dental issues you may have to resolve them before you can have your teeth whitened. A cosmetic dentist can tell you what type of whitening procedure will work the best for you.
Dental Bridges Overview
Dental bridges are a common option for replacing a few teeth that may have broken, decayed, or fallen out due to age or certain medications. Instead of getting a full set of dentures, a person who is missing a few teeth in their mouth can opt for a dental bridge. The dental bridges look like natural teeth and are secured in the mouth with porcelain crowns affixed to surrounding teeth.
Dental Bridge Treatment
Patients who are missing a few of their teeth may choose to get a dental bridge to replace the missing teeth and restore the appearance and functionality of their smiles. Dental bridges differ from other tooth replacement options in important ways. Unlike dental implants, dental bridges do not include a replacement for the tooth root. Unlike dentures, dental bridges are a permanent fixture in the mouth and do not require removal for cleaning. Depending on your individual dental health needs, your dentist will help you determine if this cosmetic dentistry option is the right choice for you.
Dental Bridge Results
Dental bridges are made of strong porcelain, so they create a natural-looking appearance that functions just like your real teeth. Your cosmetic dentist will craft the dental bridge to match the size, shape, and color of your surrounding teeth to create the most attractive result. Additionally, because the dental bridges are permanently placed in your mouth, they provide a comfortable, secure fit, allowing you to smile, eat, and speak as you normally would.
Sedation Dentistry FAQs
Many people avoid going to the dentist because they suffer from dental phobias. Others need to have extensive dental work completed and want to combine multiple treatments into one appointment. In both of these cases, sedation dentistry can help.Learn more about sedation dentistry by reviewing the answers to the frequently asked questions below.
What is Sedation Dentistry?
Sedation dentistry is a treatment used to help patients who have dental phobias or difficulty remaining still during dental visits. The treatment is also used to allow dentists to perform multiple dental procedures while maximizing the patient's comfort.
What Sedation Methods are Available?
The type of sedation available will vary from dentist to dentist, since not all dentists who offer sedation dentistry are qualified to administer all types. There are three basic methods of sedation, including: oral sedation, IV sedation, and nitrous oxide. Each option has advantages and disadvantages that your dentist can review with you in detail prior to your treatment.
Are You Asleep During Treatment?
Although sedation dentistry is often referred to as "sleep dentistry," a patient is awake, although extremely relaxed, during treatment. In many cases, patients may have little or no recollection of the procedure afterward, but the patient is awake and able to follow directions given by the dentist.
Is Sedation Dentistry Safe?
As with other medical procedures, there are some risks associated with sedation dentistry, but as long as the sedative is administered by a qualified professional, sedation dentistry is extremely safe.
For more information about using dental sedation to maximize the results of your cosmetic dentistry or restorative dentistry treatments, please contact our practice today.