Veneers
Veneers are thin shells that are laid onto
the teeth and bonded to the surface. Although they can be made
of different materials, porcelain is frequently used because of
its durability and realistic appearance. Veneers are a more conservative
alternative to crowns since they require less removal of the tooth's
original surface. With veneers in place, patients can expect straighter,
whiter, and more even teeth.
Tooth Whitening
Regardless of how well you care for your teeth,
it is inevitable that, over time, some yellowing or discoloration
will occur. This gradual change can be caused by aging, substances
that stain your teeth (such as coffee and tobacco), excessive fluoride,
or the deterioration of a tooth's nerve. A tooth whitening treatment
can be performed either as an at-home, dentist-supervised process
or in the dentist's chair. While neither of these methods stops future
discoloration, these treatments bring about whiter teeth and help
create a brighter smile.
Dental Implants
For individuals who wish to replace missing teeth,
dental implants may be an effective long-term solution. Implants
provide greater structural support and last longer than either bridges
or dentures. Implants serve as the artificial root to which new teeth
are bonded. They are typically constructed of titanium, a strong
and safe material that effectively attaches to bone. The procedure
to insert dental implants typically involves three steps: the implant
insertion stage, osseointegration (the period of healing for the
jawbone), and the attachment of the restoration or new tooth.
Bridges
A bridge is a device used to fill the space where
a tooth has fallen out or been removed. A typical bridge consists
of a pontic (a filler tooth) that is attached to two surrounding
abutments (crowns). Once complete, this bridge structure is bonded
into the mouth. Without the use of a bridge, spaces in the mouth
from missing teeth can cause multiple teeth to shift, lead to occlusion
(biting) and/or jaw problems and spur periodontal disease. Bridges
safeguard the integrity of existing teeth and help maintain a healthy,
vibrant smile.
Composite Bonding
Composite bonding is a technique used to improve
the appearance of your teeth. The term composite bonding refers to
any composite material, either a plastic or resin, which is bonded
to an existing tooth. Bonding is ideal for fixing chipped or cracked
teeth, hiding discoloration on the tooth's surface, or reducing the
gaps between teeth. Whatever the specific intent, composite bonding
creates more aesthetically pleasing teeth and a brighter smile. Unlike
veneers or crowns, composite bonding removes little if any of the
original tooth.
Composite Fillings
Until recently, dentists filled and sealed cavities
exclusively using a silver and mercury amalgam. Unfortunately, these
fillings (or restorations) often weaken teeth due to the large amount
of the original tooth that has to be removed. Modern dentistry has
increasingly turned to composite fillings as a strong, safe and more
natural looking alternative. Composite fillings utilize a soft white
plastic substance that includes a hardening agent.
Crowns
When a tooth is cracked, decayed, or damaged, a
crown may need to be fitted onto the tooth. A crown is a permanent
covering that fits over the original tooth. Crowns can be made of
porcelain, gold and other metals, acrylic resin, or an amalgam (a
mix) of these materials. Porcelain crowns typically have the most
realistic appearance, although they tend to be less durable than
other materials. Crowns can whiten, reshape, and realign existing
teeth, adding to a bright, healthy smile.
Sedation Dentistry
For anxious patients, dentistry can be a nightmare.
For these same patients, sedation dentistry can be a dream come true.
Sedation dentistry is perfect for patients who suffer from a bad
gag reflex, sensitive teeth, or are merely nervous. For short procedures,
sometimes a light sedative is perfect. The patient can remain completely
awake and responsive. Patients facing more extensive work may wish
to sleep through the entire operation. Either way, sedation can save
the patient time, trouble, and heartache.
Dr.Gallant now works with
a board certified medical anesthesiologist and offers I.V. sedation
for patients with severe dental anxiety or phobia
LUMINEERS - Porcelain Veneers That Do Not Require Removing Painful Tooth Structure
Lumineers by Cerinate is a terrific cosmetic solution for permanently stained, chipped, discolored, misaligned teeth, or even to revitalize old crown and bridgework. LUMINEERS BY CERINATE is a porcelain veneer that can be made as thin as a contact lens and is placed over existing teeth without requiring painful removal of sensitive tooth structure (unlike traditional veneers.)
Lumminers can only be made from patented Cerinate porcelain. This revolutionary porcelain is crafted through a proprietary process unavailable anywhere other than the Cerinate Smile Design Studios owned by Den-Mat Corporation. In just two or three visits to the dentist, LUMINEERS provides a custom-made smile clinically proven to last up to 20 years.
Information courtesy of Cerinate. To learn more, please visit their site at www.cerinate.com.
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