Cosmetic dentistry is the practice of using a combination of science and artistry to improve your smile. It addresses dental insecurities, resulting in a healthier and more confident smile.

Leslie is a highly skilled dental assistant with 33 years of experience. She loves to make people feel good about themselves by helping them maintain their beautiful smiles.

Teeth Whitening

Tooth staining is a cosmetic dentistry trussville al concern that can be addressed through teeth whitening. During the process, a hydrogen peroxide solution is applied to the surface of the tooth and then activated with a blue light (the energy of the light needs to be just right so as not to heat the pulp or cause gum tissue damage).

Tooth whitening is usually effective in lightening the color of teeth by two to seven shades. This reflects a reduction in the concentration of tooth-coloring pigments, called chromogens. The chromogens are trapped in the tooth enamel and are released when the enamel is exposed to oxygen.

There are two types of tooth discoloration: intrinsic and extrinsic. Intrinsic stains are those that form on the interior of the tooth and include aging, trauma and mineral staining from certain minerals, such as tetracycline during tooth formation. They are not as responsive to bleaching as external stains. Regardless of the type of staining, regular teeth whitening treatment and avoiding the consumption of tooth-staining foods or drinks should help maintain results for months or even years.

Dental Veneers

Achieve the bright, straight smile you've always wanted with dental veneers. These wafer-thin porcelain shields are bonded directly to the front of your teeth, instantly disguising chips, stains or gaps. Often used as an alternative to crowns, veneers are durable and offer a more conservative approach to cosmetic dentistry trussville al.

Porcelain veneers are virtually undetectable and extremely resistant to coffee, tea and even cigarette stains. They also resemble natural tooth enamel in strength and appearance.

During your consultation, we assess your oral health and discuss your aesthetic goals to ensure veneers are the best option for you. Candidates for this treatment typically have healthy teeth but wish to improve discoloration, chips, gaps or misalignment.

While veneers are stain-resistant, we recommend avoiding certain foods and beverages like red wine and coffee to prolong their lifespan. We also encourage you to brush and floss regularly for optimal oral health. This will keep your dental work looking great and your smile healthy for years to come.

Dental Bonding

Dental bonding is one of the more affordable cosmetic dentistry trussville al treatments available for your teeth. It uses tooth-colored material to fill in gaps, reshape or repair crooked teeth and hide discoloration. It is typically completed in a single visit and doesn’t require anesthesia, although anesthesia may be needed if your dentist works close to the nerve of your tooth.

During the bonding process, your dentist will choose a composite resin color that matches the appearance of your natural teeth. Then they will slightly etch or abrade the surface of your tooth to roughen it and coat it with a conditioning liquid to improve adhesion. They will build the putty-like resin on your tooth in layers and harden each layer with a bright light. They will continue to shape, mold, and smooth the resin until it looks natural.

Because bonded materials are not as strong as your real tooth enamel, it’s important to avoid biting down on things such as ice or chewing on pencils or pens. It’s also a good idea to maintain a regular oral hygiene routine, brushing at least twice daily and flossing once per day.

Dental Implants

Dental implants are a long-lasting, durable, and natural-looking solution for replacing missing teeth. They can be used to replace one missing tooth or to support a dental bridge or denture.

The process for getting dental implants involves several appointments with your dentist and oral surgeon. The first step is to determine whether you are a good candidate for the procedure. Then the implant post is surgically placed in the jaw bone by an oral surgeon. It takes about 12 weeks for the implant to heal and bond with the jaw bone.

Depending on your circumstances, you may need to have a bone graft before the implant can be placed. This graft uses natural bone from another area of your body or a synthetic bone-substitute material.

With modern cosmetic dentistry trussville al techniques, it is easier than ever to have a bright, beautiful smile. Contact us to find out how you can get a smile you’re proud to show off.