Cosmetic dentistry is a type of dental care that focuses on improving the appearance of the teeth and smile. It can be used to correct a variety of issues, including discolored, chipped, or misaligned teeth. At Chapel Hill Dental Care, our team of skilled dentists is dedicated to providing top-quality dental care in a comfortable and welcoming environment.
If you are interested in improving the appearance of your teeth, there are several cosmetic dentistry options available to you.
Teeth Whitening
Teeth whitening is a popular cosmetic dentistry option that can be used to lighten the color of the teeth. It is a non-invasive procedure that can be performed in the dental office or at home using a take-home whitening kit.
In-office teeth whitening is the most effective and quickest way to whiten the teeth. It involves the use of a high-concentration bleaching gel and a special light or laser to accelerate the whitening process. The procedure typically takes about an hour and can result in teeth that are several shades lighter.
Take-home teeth whitening kits are also available and typically include a bleaching gel and custom-fit trays. The trays are filled with the bleaching gel and worn for a specified amount of time each day, usually for about 30 minutes to an hour. It may take several days or weeks to see the full effects of take-home teeth whitening.
Bonding
Dental bonding is a procedure in which a tooth-colored resin is applied to the surface of the tooth and then hardened with a special light. The resin is shaped and polished to match the surrounding teeth. Bonding can be used to repair chipped or cracked teeth, or to improve the appearance of discolored teeth. It is a relatively quick and non-invasive procedure that can be completed in a single visit to the dentist.
Veneers
Veneers are thin, custom-made shells that are attached to the front of the teeth. They are typically made of porcelain or composite resin and are used to improve the appearance of the teeth. Veneers can be used to cover up discolored, chipped, or misaligned teeth, or to fill in gaps between the teeth.
The process for getting veneers typically involves several visits to the dentist. During the first visit, the dentist will take impressions of the teeth and create a model to be used for creating the veneers. The teeth will also be prepared by removing a small amount of enamel to make room for the veneers. Temporary veneers may be placed while the permanent veneers are being created.
At the second visit, the permanent veneers will be bonded to the teeth using a special cement. The cement is hardened with a special light, and the veneers are then shaped and polished to match the surrounding teeth.
Crowns
Crowns, also known as caps, are used to cover the entire surface of a tooth. They are typically made of porcelain, ceramic, or composite resin and are used to improve the appearance of the teeth, as well as to protect weak or damaged teeth. Crowns can be used to cover up discolored, chipped, or misaligned teeth, or to support a tooth with a large filling.
The process for getting crowns typically involves two visits to the dentist. During the first visit, the tooth is prepared by removing any decay and shaping the surface to make room for the crown. Impressions of the tooth are taken and used to create a model for the crown. A temporary crown may be placed while the permanent crown is being made.
