Health Information

Dental care and treatment can improve your smile and boost your self-confidence.

Information is presented on various health conditions, treatments and procedures with the goal of empowering patients to take an active role in managing their health with informed decisions about their care. This provides patients with knowledge, skills, and confidence to understand conditions and treatment plans that affect them.

The effort ultimately leads to positive experiences with healthcare providers, to improved health outcomes and a better quality of life.

Comprehensive Dental Examination

It is important to protect and maintain the teeth and gums, not only by daily brushing and flossing, but through regular professional care. Periodic dental examinations are the best protection against dental disorders, such as tooth loss and gum disease. A comprehensive dental examination includes a number of evaluative procedures, as well as a thorough dental cleaning and is an essential element of preventive health care. ...

Dental Specialties

General dentistry involves the diagnosis, treatment and prevention of a wide range of dental conditions, as well as the maintenance of overall oral health, in people of all ages. Although there are several different dental specialties, general dentistry encompasses the basics of all of them. ...

Dental Specialty FAQs

What is an Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon?

Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons are dentists that specialize in surgery of the mouth, teeth, gums, jaws and related facial structures. After completing their dental school education, oral and maxillofacial surgeons receive another four to seven years of hospital-based surgical and medical training. This additional training provides them with the experience necessary to perform a wide variety of procedures that involve the bones and soft tissues of the face, mouth and neck. ...

Inlays and Onlays

Inlays and onlays can often be used in place of traditional dental fillings to treat tooth decay or similar structural damage. Similar to a filling but designed to strengthen a tooth, an inlay or onlay can be made of porcelain, gold or composite resin. The material is bonded to the damaged area of the tooth. An inlay is typically adhered inside the cusp tips of the tooth, whereas an onlay is used for more substantial reconstructions. An onlay is designed to extend beyond one or more of the cusps of the tooth. ...

Oral Hygiene

Proper oral hygiene is essential for healthy teeth and gums. Just as toothbrushing is necessary to prevent bacteria from attacking the teeth and causing cavities, tending the gums is necessary to prevent bacteria from attacking the gums and invading deeper tissues, causing periodontal disease. Most cases of periodontal disease develop because bacterial plaque builds up on the teeth; when the plaque hardens, it causes tartar to form, which can destroy the tissues and bone that support the teeth. Although seeing a dentist for a professional cleaning is a prerequisite for maintaining mouth health, personal oral hygiene is also crucial. ...

Teeth Whitening

Teeth whitening or bleaching products brighten teeth that have been stained or darkened by food, tobacco use, age or injury. There are a variety of in-office and take-home teeth whitening products to reduce or eliminate such stains.

In-Office Teeth Whitening

In-office teeth whitening, also called chairside bleaching, takes place during a series of appointments at a dentist's office. Advantages of in-office teeth whitening over take-home whitening include: ...

Dental Bonding FAQs

What is dental bonding?

Dental bonding is a procedure that can restore, reshape and rejuvenate your teeth, improving both the function and the appearance of your smile. By applying a thin layer of tooth-colored plastic to the front of the tooth and sculpting it to the appropriate form, the dentist may use bonding to correct: ...

Dental Bone Grafts

Bone grafting is a regenerative treatment option for patients who have lost quality and quantity of supporting bone tissue as a result of periodontal disease. This procedure is often needed before dental implants can be placed. It also helps protect the teeth from bacteria, trauma and further degeneration. ...

Bruxism

Bruxism is a disorder, usually manifesting itself at night, in which a person grinds, gnashes or clenches her or his teeth. Occasional grinding of teeth is not harmful, but when it occurs often, teeth can be damaged and other oral complications occur. People with bruxism are more likely to suffer from other sleep-related disorders, including snoring or sleep apnea. Sleep partners may notice bruxism in one another, and dentists can often diagnose it during routine examinations based on damage to teeth or crowns. ...

Cavities

Cavities are small holes in the teeth that form as a result of decay. During the decay process, the outer layers of the teeth, known as enamel and dentin, are worn away, leaving eroded areas called cavities. Cavities are caused by a buildup of bacteria, food particles and saliva which combine to form dental plaque, a film that coats the teeth. Since plaque is acidic, it can attack the tooth causing decay and resulting in cavities. ...

Common Orthodontic Problems

Although braces take some getting used to, the results of wearing them (an attractive smile and balanced facial bone structure, and increased functionality of the teeth and jaw) are well worth it. There are some simple remedies, particularly orthodontist-provided relief wax, that are usually helpful for common problems related to wearing braces. Serious problems, however, such as wounds to the mouth or damage to the braces themselves, require immediate orthodontic intervention. ...

Cone Beam CT Scan Imaging

Radiology is an important tool in diagnosing and assessing dental abnormalities in patients. It is especially helpful in treating patients with problems in the dentomaxillofacial region. Cone Beam CT Scan Imaging, also known as CBCT, is considered an important innovation in dental X-ray diagnostics, particularly for dentomaxillofacial surgery. Unlike regular X-rays, CBCT scans can differentiate among many types of tissue including bone, teeth and nerves. ...

Cosmetic Dentistry

Cosmetic dentistry involves maintaining and restoring optimal appearance of the mouth and smile, as well as the health of the teeth and gums. Various procedures and products are now available to assist in this endeavor and some dentists have special training in this important field.

Tooth Whitening

Tooth whitening is effective in correcting many tooth discolorations so that the patient's teeth appear a healthy natural color. Teeth stained or darkened by food, tobacco use, aging or injury can be restored to a pleasing shade of whiteness in only a few short visits, or even in a single visit, to a cosmetic dentist. While at-home methods of tooth whitening may also be used, they work more slowly and tend to be less efficient than professional work. ...

Cosmetic Dentistry FAQs

Why should a missing tooth be replaced?

The healthiest thing to do when a tooth is missing is to have it replaced. Otherwise, there is a risk of problems that may include:

• Difficulty biting and chewing
• Difficulty speaking
• Headaches
• Muscle pain
• Unattractive appearance

What are dental implants?

Dental implants serve as the base for many tooth-replacement options, including bridges, dentures and individual artificial teeth. Implants are surgically implanted in the jaw to provide a comfortable, secure fit. ...

Crowding or Spacing of the Teeth

Crowding or spacing of the teeth can result from an anatomical abnormality in jaw structure, or from a size disparity between the upper and lower jaw during growth. Crowding or spacing may also be caused by traumatic injury to the jaw. Inconsistency between the length or width of the jaw can result in an imbalance of the facial bones, muscles and teeth. An orthodontist can reposition the jaw so that, as growth continues, the bones and teeth align correctly. If the disparities are not addressed during childhood, they can result in major jaw issues that require orthognathic (jaw) surgery. ...

Dental Crowns and Bridges

Dental Crowns

Dental crowns are natural-looking, tooth-shaped caps used to cover a damaged or missing tooth in order to restore a full and beautiful smile. These caps are cemented into place to provide both strong and visibly appealing replacements for natural teeth. Crowns are usually necessary when the tooth is broken down to the point where a filling will not be effective. ...

Dental Abscess

A dental abscess is an infection in a tooth or the surrounding gums. When cavities and gum-related issues are left untreated, teeth can decay and bacteria can spread to surrounding areas of the mouth and jaw, causing deeper infection. Dental abscesses can have serious medical ramifications, so it is important that they be treated promptly. ...

Dental Bonding

Dental bonding is a special procedure used to restore, reshape and rejuvenate teeth, improving both their function and appearance. Dentists apply a thin layer of tooth-colored plastic to the front of the tooth and sculpt it to perfect the patient's appearance. Dental bonding is used to repair chipped, cracked, broken, misshapen teeth or stained teeth or to fill in the spaces between teeth. ...

Dental Bridges

Dental bridges are natural-looking tooth replacements that help maintain facial structure, reduce stress on the jaw and fill in the gaps caused by missing teeth. Dental bridges replace missing teeth with a short row of prosthetics that rely on the strength of surrounding natural teeth, called abutment teeth, to help stabilize the bite. Bridges also help keep adjacent teeth from moving into the open space left by the missing tooth. ...

Dental Crowns

A dental crown is a restoration that covers or caps a tooth, restoring it to its normal size and shape while strengthening and improving its appearance. Crowns are a very reliable solution for major dental problems that have resulted in a severely damaged or missing tooth. Crowns provide a strong, sturdy, aesthetically pleasing replacement that can tolerate the same pressures as a regular tooth, letting patients enjoy the convenience of eating, speaking and smiling without any difficulties. Crowns are necessary when the tooth is broken down to the point where a filling will not be effective. ...

Dental Bridges FAQs

As people age, their teeth tend to decay and weaken at an increasing pace. Fortunately, there are options for replacing lost teeth through reconstructive or restorative dentistry.

What is a dental bridge?

Dental bridges are natural-looking tooth replacements that help to maintain facial structure, reduce stress on the jaw and fill in the gaps caused by missing teeth. Dental bridges replace missing teeth with a short row of prosthetics that rely on the strength of surrounding natural teeth, called abutment teeth, to help stabilize the bite. Bridges also help keep adjacent teeth from moving into the open space left by the missing tooth. ...

Crown Lengthening

Crown lengthening, also known as crown exposure, is a surgical procedure performed when there is not enough exposed tooth structure to place a restoration on the tooth. This procedure removes gum tissue and/or bone to expose more of the tooth, allowing a crown or filling to be put in place. Crown lengthening is often performed after a tooth breaks off at the gum or a crown or filling is removed and the tooth underneath is significantly decayed. A decent amount of healthy tooth structure is needed in order to properly perform a restoration. ...

Dental Crowns FAQs

What is a dental crown?

Dental crowns are natural-looking, tooth-shaped caps that cover a damaged or missing tooth, restoring a full and beautiful smile. These caps are cemented into place to provide both strong and visibly appealing replacements for natural teeth. Crowns are usually necessary when the tooth is broken down to the point where a filling will not be effective. ...

Surgical Dental Extractions

A dental extraction, also known as exodontia, is one of the most common procedures performed at a dentist's office. The procedure involves removing or pulling a tooth. A surgical extraction may be necessary on certain teeth.

Reasons for Surgical Extractions

Dental extractions may be performed to minimize overcrowding or in preparation for braces. An extraction may also be performed to remove the following types of teeth: ...

Dental Fillings

Dental tooth fillings are a restorative treatment, used to improve the appearance and functionality of teeth affected by damage or decay. The restorations most frequently made in children are fillings after a cavity has been discovered in either a primary or permanent tooth. The filling materials, which can be made from several different substances, help to even out tooth surfaces for more efficient biting and chewing. Dental fillings can last for many years and help keep the tooth looking and functioning at its best. ...

Tooth-Colored Fillings

In the past, dental cavities were filled with a mixture of metal alloys, also known as amalgam. Today, tooth-colored or composite fillings are a mixture of resin, glass or quartz and porcelain ceramics. These materials are resilient and long lasting. These fillings are colored to match the patient's teeth and are practically invisible to the untrained eye. For aesthetic and/or medical purposes, these tooth-colored fillings can be used to replace old and worn dental amalgam, gold or other metal fillings. ...

Dental Implants

Dental implants are an option to replace missing teeth and provide a fixed solution to removable dentures. Dental implants are natural-looking replacement teeth that are fixed in the jaw. Implant treatment provides an option to correct the most troublesome cases associated with missing teeth and ill-fitting dentures. ...

Dental Restoration

Dental restorations are procedures performed to repair a damaged or decayed tooth. Restorations can be made from a number of different materials, including composite resin, metal, porcelain, ceramic, and porcelain-fused-to-metal. There are various types of dental restorations available depending on the specific need and desire of each patient. ...

Dental Sealants

Dental sealants, thin coatings generally applied to the occlusal (chewing) surfaces of the teeth, are an effective method of cavity prevention. The sealant acts as a barrier between the tooth and food, bacteria and plaque, all of which can lead to decay. Sealants are especially effective in preventing bacterial formation in the grooves of molar and premolar surfaces, areas that are especially susceptible to decay. ...

Dental Trauma

Dental trauma involves any kind of injury to the face, teeth, gums or jaw line. Patients may experience trauma as a result of a sports injury, motor vehicle accident, or other type of incident. Dental trauma can also occur from eating foods that are too hard or drinking liquids that are too hot. These injuries can range from facial cuts and lacerations to more serious problems such as broken teeth and fractures. Trauma is most common among children, and the most common type of injury is a fracture of the tooth crown. ...

Dental X-rays

Dental X-rays are a vital part of a dental examination. There are two main types of dental X-rays: those taken with the X-ray film inside the mouth (intraoral) and those taken with the X-ray film outside the mouth (extraoral). Intraoral X-rays are the ones most commonly used. They provide detailed evidence of the growth of developing teeth, the health of tooth roots and surrounding bone, including the jaw. They also help the dentist zero in on any cavities. Extraoral X-rays, while they also show the teeth, primarily focus on the jaw and skull. They are therefore more helpful in diagnosing malocclusions, impacted teeth, and possible temporomandibular joint disorders (TMD). ...

Denture Care

Dentures, like natural teeth, require care to function properly. Regular dental check-ups to evaluate the fit of the appliances and check oral tissue for signs of disease are essential for those with dentures, especially because loose-fitting dentures can cause sores and infection. In addition, patients with dentures need to practice good oral hygiene and take steps to ensure that their dentures are kept clean and intact. Proper denture care helps to safeguard oral health and maintain an attractive appearance. ...

Dentures

Custom dentures can effectively replace missing or damaged teeth throughout the mouth, restoring a patient's ability to smile, speak and eat without difficulty or worry. Unlike dentures produced in the past, which were often uncomfortable or prone to slippage, custom dentures are specifically crafted with the individual patient's needs in mind. ...

Digital Imaging

Digital imaging, or digital radiography, is a valuable diagnostic tool frequently used in dentistry, as well as other disciplines. It is an innovative technique that uses a computer to efficiently manipulate and store X-ray images. Using this technology provides immediate results, readily available for sharing and discussion with patients and with other medical or dental professionals. ...

Dry Mouth

Dry mouth, or xerostomia, is characterized by an insufficient amount of saliva. Saliva, produced by the salivary glands, is crucial to oral health and normal functioning, moistening and lubricating the mouth, producing digestive enzymes, and neutralizing bacterial acids. There are many reasons that a patient may develop a dry mouth, from lifestyle habits to disease conditions to medications. ...

Endodontics

An endodontist treats problems of the dental pulp, the soft tissue within the tooth that contains blood vessels, nerves and connective tissue which helps create the surrounding hard tissue that makes up the outside of the tooth. The pulp extends from the crown of the tooth to the tips of the roots and into the surrounding tissue. Dental pulp is vital to the growth and development of healthy teeth, but is not necessarily needed once the tooth has fully matured. ...

Endodontics FAQs

What is endodontics?

Endodontics is a dental specialty that focuses on treating the inside of the tooth. Sometimes referred to as the practice of root canal therapy, endodontics actually encompasses a wide range of surgical and nonsurgical procedures that keep the teeth free from diseases and injuries of the pulp and surrounding tissue. As with other dental specialties, the goal of endodontics is to maintain good oral health. ...

Fluoride Treatment

Fluoride is a natural substance that helps strengthen teeth and prevent decay in patients of all ages. Naturally, it is found in water sources and certain foods such as meat, fish and eggs. As a supplement it is available in toothpastes, vitamins, rinses and professional treatments from dentists. Sufficient fluoride treatment is most important for children, to ensure extra protection from cavities against their developing teeth. ...

Gingivitis

Gingivitis is the inflammation of gums that is caused by a buildup of plaque and bacteria between the teeth and gums. Plaque that remains on the teeth, turns into a hard deposit called tartar that becomes trapped at the base of the tooth. Plaque and tartar irritate and inflame the gums causing redness, swelling, pain and sometimes even bleeding. Gingivitis is a common periodontal condition that can be effectively managed, however, left untreated, gingivitis can lead to periodontal disease and possible tooth loss. Proper oral hygiene and regular dental examinations are essential in the prevention and early detection of gum disease. ...

Gum Disease

Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is caused by a build-up of plaque and bacteria between the teeth and gums. When left untreated, the gums become infected and if gum disease progresses, it becomes increasingly difficult and painful to treat. Progressed cases of gum disease can also lead to tooth loss. ...

Periodontitis

Periodontitis is an advanced stage of gum disease caused by a buildup of plaque and bacteria between the teeth and gums. It causes the gums to pull away from the teeth, creating deep pockets in which the bacteria can grow, damaging bone that supports teeth. When periodontitis is left untreated, gums become increasingly painful, and tooth loss may result. ...

Gum Grafting

Gum grafting (soft tissue augmentation) is a surgical procedure that helps protect the tooth roots and improve the smile for patients who are self-conscious about receded gums. Gum grafting also helps protect the mouth from bacteria and trauma.

Gum recession is a common problem, usually resulting from gingivitis, that can lead to exposure of an excessive amount of tooth, or even of the tooth root. This can not only result in pain and damage, but can adversely affect the appearance. Gum recession is a gradual process, often not noticed until an exposed root appears, looking unpleasant and causing extreme tooth sensitivity, particularly to hot or cold. In order to repair gum recession, a graft procedure may be necessary both to restore oral health and for aesthetic reasons. ...

In-Office Tooth Whitening

In-office tooth whitening is a whitening procedure performed in the dentist's office. It is designed to make the patient's teeth up to five to seven shades brighter. Teeth discolor for a number of reasons; they may become stained or darkened by food, tobacco, injury or aging. Various methods of bleaching are available to alter the shade of the patient's teeth to the preferred degree of whiteness, one appropriate to the patient's age and coloring. ...

Invisalign® Orthodontic Treatment

For people who are dissatisfied with their smiles but have not done anything about them because they are not interested in a mouthful of metal, Invisalign® "braces" may be a good option. They eliminate both the discomfort of metal wires and the inconvenience of adjustments. The Invisalign system uses virtually invisible aligners that straighten teeth without metal bands, brackets or wires. The custom-made trays are comfortable, and easy to remove for eating, brushing, flossing and special occasions. The clear-plastic Invisalign aligners are so inconspicuous that it is difficult to tell when someone is wearing them. ...

Invisalign® FAQs

The Invisalign® system uses virtually invisible aligners, rather than metal bands, brackets or wires, to straighten teeth comfortably. The aligners are custom-made to fit the teeth, and are easily removable so patients can eat, drink, brush and floss. The advantage that Invisalign teeth aligners have over regular braces is that they are virtually undetectable. ...

Malocclusion

Malocclusion is a term that refers to an abnormal alignment of the upper and lower teeth. When the teeth are abnormally aligned, dental problems, such as difficulty with biting or chewing, can occur. Malocclusion can also make the face look unnatural, cause a person to breathe through the mouth, and create problems with speech. In severe cases, untreated malocclusion can lead to extreme stress on, and eventual damage to, the affected teeth. ...

Panorex X-Ray

Dental X-rays are beneficial in finding cavities. A panorex X-ray, or panoramic X-ray, provides a full view of the upper and lower jaws, teeth, temporomandibular (TM) joints, and sinuses. A panorex X-ray shows more of a patient's oral cavity than a traditional X-ray can.

A panorex X-ray can be used to reveal cysts, tumors, bone irregularities, wisdom teeth and more. And, unlike with a traditional X-ray, the mandibular nerve, which is the nerve going to the lower lip, is fully visualized with a panorex X-ray. ...

Partial Dentures

Partial dentures are prosthetic devices used to replace one or more missing or diseased teeth; restore the appearance and function of the teeth; or reduce the risk of gum disease. This type of replacement is often used when one or more healthy natural teeth remain in the area to support the denture. Patients are able to eat, speak and smile without difficulty once partial dentures are in place. ...

Pediatric Dentistry

Pediatric dentistry is an area of dentistry that specializes in treating the oral healthcare needs of children. Pediatric dentists provide regular checkups, cleanings and fluoride treatments, and overall oral treatment and care for children's teeth. Pediatric dentists also commonly apply sealants to children's teeth to prevent cavities. ...

Periodontal Disease

Periodontal (gum) disease is an infection of the tissue that surrounds and supports the teeth. A leading cause of tooth loss, it is most often caused by a buildup of plaque on the teeth. Plaque is a sticky film of bacteria that can be brushed and flossed away with proper oral care. However, when left on the teeth, plaque produces toxins that attack below the gum line and in the crevices between the teeth and gums, causing the bond between teeth and gums to break down. ...

Periodontal Disease FAQs

What is periodontal disease?

Periodontal disease, also known as gum disease, is an infection of the tissue that surrounds and supports the teeth. It is most often caused by a buildup of plaque on the teeth. Plaque is a sticky film of bacteria that can be brushed and flossed away with proper oral care. However, when left on the teeth, plaque produces toxins that attack below the gum line and in the crevices between the teeth and gums, causing the bond between teeth and gums to break down. ...

Periodontal Treatment

Periodontics is a branch of dentistry that treats conditions and diseases of the supporting structures of the teeth, especially the gums. Periodontists commonly treat severe cases of oral inflammation including gum disease.

Periodontal treatment is concerned with keeping the gums and bone around the teeth healthy. This involves the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of periodontal, or gum disease. Periodontists perform various procedures on the gums and surrounding tissue within the mouth.  ...

Periodontics

Periodontics is a branch of dentistry that treats conditions and diseases of the teeth's supporting structures, especially the gums. Periodontists commonly treat severe cases of oral inflammation, including gum disease.

Periodontic Specialties

Periodontics typically focuses on the diagnosis and treatment of periodontal disease, commonly known as gum disease. Gum disease is a broad term that encompasses several different conditions. Periodontists treat different phases of gum disease, including: ...

Philips ZOOM® Whitening

Philips ZOOM® whitening is a complete tooth whitening system. Philips ZOOM whitening offers safe, effective and fast brightening results, with the added benefit of even greater whitening power and less tooth sensitivity. Philips ZOOM whitening is fast and powerful, brightening teeth by up to eight shades in just 45 minutes with no trays or strips. ...

Porcelain Crowns

A dental crown (cap) is a restoration that covers a tooth, restoring it to its normal size and shape, while strengthening and improving its appearance. A crown is necessary when a tooth is broken to the point where a filling will not be effective. A dental crown can be used for various reasons, including covering discolored or misshapen teeth, or restoring a broken tooth. It may also be used in conjunction with bridges and dental implants. A porcelain crown is made entirely of porcelain. ...

Porcelain Veneers

Porcelain veneers are very thin, tooth-colored shells of ceramic that are custom-fit and bonded to the front of the teeth. They can create an attractively white and even smile. Veneers can address a variety of issues, including chipped, yellow, stained, misshapen or crooked teeth, or teeth with spaces between them. A veneer placed on top of a tooth can quickly and easily improve the look of a smile. ...

Preventive Dentistry

Preventive dentistry helps avoid the costly and invasive procedures often needed to treat serious dental conditions. Maintaining dental health helps people look and feel their best, and can have a positive effect on their overall health. Preventing dental problems requires a lifelong commitment. To begin developing proper dental-hygiene habits, a child should visit a dentist shortly after the first teeth emerge. ...

Radiograph

A radiograph is a digital image created by an X-ray. Dentists follow careful guidelines as to when radiographs should be taken. Radiographs are a valuable diagnostic tool, giving dentists the ability to view internal structures of the mouth that are not visible in a physical examination.

Reasons for a Radiograph

Radiographs assist dentists with the following: ...

Restorative Dentistry

A patient who has teeth that are damaged or missing, whether from disease, injury or other causes, is a candidate for restorative dentistry, which will restore overall mouth health and make teeth look aesthetically pleasing. Receiving proper treatment for damaged or missing teeth is essential in order to prevent further problems and eliminate difficulties with eating or speaking. ...

Root Canal

A root canal is the most commonly performed endodontic procedure. It involves treating problems within the tooth's soft core, also known as the dental pulp. The dental pulp is the soft tissue found inside the tooth; it extends from the top of the tooth all the way down to the end of the root. It contains nerves, blood vessels and connective tissue that provide nutrients to the tooth as it grows. ...

Root Canal FAQs

What is a root canal?

A root canal is a dental procedure performed to repair a tooth that is badly decayed or infected. The nerve and pulp are removed, and the inside of the tooth is cleaned and sealed.

A root canal is the most commonly performed endodontic procedure. It treats problems within a tooth's soft core, also known as the dental pulp. The dental pulp contains blood vessels, nerves and connective tissue that provide nutrients to the tooth as it grows. The pulp extends from the top of the tooth all the way down to the end of the root. Sometimes, the pulp can become infected and, as a result, the nerve and surrounding tissue must be removed from the tooth through the root canal procedure. ...

Scaling and Root Planing

Scaling and root planing is a treatment usually performed during the early stages of periodontal disease to help remove plaque and tartar that has built up beneath the gum line. This procedure is considered a deep cleaning, and may be performed to prevent the disease from progressing to a more advanced stage, or to improve the quality of a patient's tissue before surgery. ...

Tooth Bleaching

In-office tooth bleaching procedures can make tooth color five to seven shades brighter. Dental offices use different methods of bleaching or tooth whitening to achieve effective results.

Bleaching products can brighten teeth that have been stained or darkened by:

• Food
• Tobacco
• Injury
• Aging

In-Office Teeth Bleaching Procedures

Types of dental office bleaching procedures may include: ...

Veneers

Veneers are very thin, tooth-colored shells of ceramic that are custom-fit and bonded to the front of the teeth. They can create a white, even, and attractive smile. Veneers make it possible to correct a variety of problems, including:

• Spaces between the teeth
• Chipped teeth
• Yellowing or stains
• Misshapen or crooked teeth
• Small holes or pits in teeth
• Uneven or undersized teeth

A veneer placed on top of a tooth can quickly and easily help achieve a beautiful smile. Although some veneers are designed to be removable, most are permanent and are bonded very tightly to the tooth they are protecting. The advancements in technology have improved bonding agents to the point where some types of veneers may last for 20 years or more. ...

Veneers FAQs

What are veneers?

Veneers are very thin, tooth-colored shells that are custom-fit and bonded to the front of the teeth. They can create a white, even and attractive smile. Commonly made of composite or porcelain, veneers make it possible to correct a variety of color and shape related tooth problems that may include: ...