A bright, healthy smile can be a real confidence booster. However, not everyone is born with perfectly aligned, pearly white teeth. Fortunately, cosmetic dentistry has made it possible for everyone to achieve a dazzling smile. Dr. Gil has several cosmetic dental options to help you get your ideal smile.
Dental Bonding
Dental bonding is a quick and easy way to fix minor cosmetic issues like chips, cracks, gaps, or discoloration. Dr. Gil applies a tooth-colored composite resin material to the surface of your tooth and molds it into the desired shape. Finally, Dr. Gil will harden the resin with a special light and polishes your tooth to blend in with the nearby teeth.
Dental bonding is a painless process that typically takes less than an hour per tooth. Luckily, it requires minimal preparation. Additionally, the results can last for several years with proper care. However, bonding is not as durable as other cosmetic options, such as dental crowns. In fact, the material may need replacement over time.
Porcelain Veneers
Porcelain veneers are thin custom-made shells bonded to the teeth’s front surface to improve their appearance. They can address a wide range of cosmetic concerns, such as stains, chips, or gaps.
The process of getting porcelain veneers usually requires two or three appointments. During the first visit, the dentist will take impressions of your teeth and prepare them by getting rid of a small amount of enamel. Next, the impressions go to a dental lab, where the veneers are made to match your natural teeth.
At the second visit, Dr. Gil will bond the veneer to your teeth using a special adhesive. The dentist will then make any necessary changes to make sure you have a comfortable fit and a natural result.
Porcelain veneers are highly durable and can last 10 to 15 years with proper care. They are also stain-resistant and can provide a dramatic improvement to your smile. However, they are a more expensive option than dental bonding or teeth whitening.
Teeth Whitening
Teeth whitening is a popular and affordable way to brighten discolored teeth. The dentist can perform an in-office whitening treatment that uses concentrated bleaching gel and a special light to speed the whitening process.
Alternatively, Dr. Gil can provide custom-made whitening trays that you can use at home with a lower-concentration gel.
Teeth whitening is a non-invasive procedure that can last as little as one hour. However, it may not suit everyone, especially those with sensitive teeth or gum disease. The teeth whitening results can last several months to a year. However, this may depend on your oral hygiene habits and lifestyle choices.
Clear Aligners
For mild orthodontic concerns, you can use clear aligners to improve your smile. Unlike traditional metal braces, clear aligners use thin plastic to shift your teeth into the proper position gently. This means you wouldn’t have to worry about the awkward aesthetics of metal brackets and braces.
Clear aligners are nearly invisible on your teeth, making them a popular choice for many patients. Additionally, you can (and should) remove them when eating or drinking non-clear liquids.
However, clear aligners may not suit everyone, especially those with severe bite problems or complex orthodontic issues. They also require strict adherence to wearing the aligners for at least 22 hours daily to achieve optimal results.