We are dedicated to the art and science of transforming not only the appearance of your smile, but also your overall oral health. Cosmetic dentistry can improve your self image, particularly if you have damaged or discolored teeth. Even simple procedures such as bleaching or bonding can be real confidence-boosters.

Unlike general or restorative dentistry, cosmetic dental procedures are done electively to improve the appearance of your smile. We use natural looking; tooth-colored materials and advances in technology allow us to perform our cosmetic dentistry services on-site, so the procedures are comfortable and convenient for you.

There are many cosmetic options, depending on what you need to have done. For example:

• Stained or discolored teeth: The enamel that covers the teeth can get stained. The underlying tooth structure (the dentin) also can get yellow over time. Bleaching is an option for healthy teeth.

• Chips or rough spots: These can be filled with a tooth-colored material called composite resin. This material can be chosen to match the color of your teeth. Once it's smoothed and polished, it will look virtually the same as the surrounding area.

• Cavities or cracks: Traditional amalgam fillings work fine in the back of the mouth. However, most people don't want to reveal a "metal mouth" when they smile. Silver amalgam also contains mercury. This can be toxic to the nervous system. However, leakage of mercury into the mouth is believed to be very low. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has not found any reason to limit the use of amalgam. But many dentists and patients prefer not to use silver amalgam. An alternative is to use tooth-colored fillings. These fillings are made of a plastic material similar to that used to repair chips or cracks. Some white fillings (direct composites) are pressed into the cavity and cured (hardened) with a special high-intensity blue light. Others are made in a laboratory and then cemented in place. These include special composites and porcelain fillings called inlays and onlays. Laboratory-made composites and porcelain fillings cost much more than amalgam fillings, but are much more attractive. They are about the same cost as gold fillings. Gold fillings are less appealing today because of their appearance. However, they are very strong and long lasting.

• Uneven teeth: it is not uncommon for a tooth to be slightly longer or have a different shape than its neighbors. With a procedure called recontouring, your dentist can reshape the tooth so that it's a better match.

• Gaps between the teeth: Small gaps can be closed by applying composite material between the teeth. For large gaps or other surface flaws, your dentist may recommend veneers. Veneers are among the most costly cosmetic procedures. They are permanently bonded to the fronts of the teeth. This gives them an entirely new appearance. Veneers are made from ultra-thin shells of porcelain that are matched to your exact tooth color. Your dentist also may refer you to an orthodontist to correct your gaps. Some people like or don't mind a gap. Others are very aware of it and want it closed. You and your dentist can determine the best treatment option. In some cases, the best option is no treatment. In others, it may be bonding, veneers or braces.

• Broken or crooked teeth: If a tooth has been badly broken or is structurally weak, you may need a crown. Today, crowns on front teeth are made of tooth-colored porcelain. It can appear very life-like. The crown may be all porcelain, or, more typically, porcelain with metal inside that fits over the tooth. Both types of crowns offer excellent results. Your choice depends on your bite (occlusion) and what you and your dentist prefer.

Cosmetic procedures vary in technique and cost. Before you start a treatment plan, consider all the options and make an educated decision. Remember, these procedures cannot be reversed.

Cosmetic Dentistry includes:

• Porcelain laminates

• Bleaching

• Bonding

• Replacing amalgam (silver) fillings with white fillings