If you’re curious about the top 5 cosmetic dental treatments we offer at Altoona Smiles, read on.
What Are 5 Of The Top Cosmetic Dental Treatments I Can Get At Altoona Smiles?
- Professional Teeth Whitening
- Composite Resin Veneers
- Lumineers
- Porcelain Veneers
- Smile Makeovers
Professional Teeth Whitening
If you’re considering getting a one-size-fits-all product at your local pharmacy or superstore, consider investing in your smile. Over-the-counter teeth whitening options are often unable to address complex staining concerns. When it comes to deep-set stains or stains involving caked tartar that needs to be removed, trust the professionals at Altoona Smiles instead.
Composite Resin Veneers
Composite resin veneers, also known as “chair-side veneers”, are a porcelain alternative made of translucent resin. They are carefully shaped and hardened by a dentist in a single appointment. These veneers are used to repair worn, chipped, or damaged teeth, as well as teeth that are discolored, crooked, or misshapen. The composite veneer is placed over the imperfect tooth to give the appearance of straight, white, and healthy teeth. Composite veneers don’t require multiple visits like porcelain veneers and can usually be placed in one visit. With good care, composite veneers can last 5-10 years.
Lumineers
If you have teeth that are moderately stained, discolored, chipped, have gaps, are slightly crooked, or are too weak for traditional porcelain veneers, Lumineers may be the perfect option for you. Lumineers are ultra-thin and durable veneers that are applied much faster than regular veneers. Additionally, unlike standard veneers, Lumineers do not require any tooth thinning or shaping prior to application. Your dentist can apply and remove them at any time without causing any damage to your teeth. You can expect Lumineers to last 8-20 years with good care.
Porcelain Veneers
Porcelain veneers are a thin layer of custom-made porcelain material that can be used to cosmetically or restoratively enhance the appearance of a tooth. Veneers are less invasive than crowns, as they only cover the surface of the tooth, rather than the entire tooth. They are a great option for those who want to fix existing teeth without having to replace them with implants or dentures. With porcelain veneers, you can achieve a brighter white than with whitening treatments alone. Using good care and hygiene, porcelain veneers can last 7-15 years.
Prior to placing veneers, the dentist will typically remove a small portion of the enamel from the front and sides of the teeth to make room for the veneers. To ensure the best fit and color, the dentist will create an impression or mold of the prepared teeth and send it to a dental lab to have custom-made porcelain veneers crafted. This process may take a few days, so the dentist may provide temporary veneers for wear in the meantime. At the next visit, the dentist will place the veneers on the teeth to check the fit and shape, followed by cleaning and bonding them to the tooth. If any additional adjustments are needed, these can be made at a later appointment.
Smile Makeovers
A smile makeover is a customized cosmetic dentistry treatment plan that is specifically tailored to the patient’s individual needs and preferences. During the consultation, the patient will be able to discuss what they would like to see improved about their teeth. Common issues such as tooth decay, staining, discoloration, and minor misalignments can all be addressed with a smile makeover. Our dental experts at Altoona Smiles will work together with the patient to develop a treatment plan that will create an aesthetically pleasing smile. In most cases, your customized plan can be completed in just a few dental office visits.
Which Cosmetic Dental Treatment Is Right For Me?
If you wonder whether composite resin veneers, Lumineers, or porcelain veneers would suit your needs best, or how you could benefit from a smile makeover, call the experts at Altoona Smiles. For patients in the Altoona, IA area, Altoona Smiles is glad to serve all your cosmetic as well as family and restorative dentistry needs. Call 515-200-1299 to ask about how we can help you on your smile journey or schedule a visit today.
