Enhancing your smile may seem like a daunting task, but Dr. Rochelle Riley can help. If you are looking for cosmetic dentistry in Puyallup, Washington, check out the information below to learn more. Our dental team at Northwest Dental Medicine are eager to care for your smile. Call (253) 845-9507 if you have any questions.
What is cosmetic dentistry?
Cosmetic dentistry is a dental field that focuses on improving the appearance of your teeth so that you can enjoy a more beautiful smile. It includes preventive care as well as restorative treatments. Some common cosmetic dental treatments include:
- Teeth whitening
- Dental veneers
- Composite (tooth-colored) dental fillings
- Dental bonding
- Dental crowns and bridges
- Dental implants
- Orthodontics
- Smile makeovers
What are the benefits of cosmetic dentistry?
The biggest benefit of cosmetic dentistry is the end result of a beautiful smile. A beautiful smile boosts your self-confidence and has a positive impact on your overall well-being. Additionally, cosmetic dentistry often also improves the health and function of your teeth by straightening them properly and making them easier to care for with regular brushing and flossing.
What is the difference between a general and a cosmetic dentist?
The difference between a general and cosmetic dentist is in training. General dentists can become cosmetic dentists if they receive some additional training. Cosmetic dentists have expanded their knowledge and skillset to cover additional areas of dental care involving the appearance of their patients’ teeth, such as teeth whitening, dental bonding, dental veneers, orthodontic treatments, tooth-colored fillings and more.
Why should I have my teeth whitened professionally?
While there are many over-the-counter teeth whitening options, professional teeth whitening is always more effective, faster and safer. For example, in-office whitening treatments can dramatically brighten your smile in as little as one hour. Whitening products purchased at your local supermarket can take weeks to have any effect and may be damaging to your teeth in the long run.
Are veneers the only option if I want a smile makeover?
No. There are a wide range of treatments available to improve your smile. Each person is unique, and we will examine your mouth carefully and give you a full range of treatment options. Our dentists will work closely with you to develop a customized treatment plan that may include one or more treatments so that you can reach your smile goals.
Can cosmetic dentistry address crooked teeth?
Absolutely. Cosmetic dentistry includes a number of treatments aimed at improving the appearance, alignment and function of your teeth. Your cosmetic treatment plan may include orthodontics and tooth contouring (reshaping) to correct the shape and alignment of your teeth. Minor flaws in the appearance of your teeth may be addressed with dental bonding or veneers.
How do I know which cosmetic treatment is right for me?
Your cosmetic treatments will depend on your smile goals and on the condition of your teeth. When you visit our dentists for your consultation, we will discuss the appearance you wish to achieve as well as the condition and health of your teeth in order to determine which treatments will be most effective for you.
How many appointments will I need to get the smile I want?
The number of appointments you will need depends on the condition of your teeth and the treatment or combination of treatments needed to help meet your goals. For example, treatments like dental bonding and teeth whitening can be completed in a single appointment, while porcelain veneers usually require two visits. Our dentists will work with you to determine which treatments are best for you and how many appointments you will need to achieve your personal perfect smile.
How long do veneers last?
Veneers have been known to last for up to 20 years. You can extend the life of your veneer with good oral hygiene at home and regular dental visits.
What causes discoloration and staining on my teeth?
There are many factors which can cause your teeth to become dull, stained or discolored. These include:
- Age
- Smoking and tobacco use
- Foods and beverages that stain (tea, coffee, soda, wine, etc.)
- The side effects of medications
- Genetics
- Excessive fluoride consumption (fluorosis)
Is cosmetic dentistry appropriate for children?
Cosmetic dentistry may or may not be the right choice for children depending on their age, their dental development and if there is a problem that needs to be corrected. For example, children and adolescents with severely discolored teeth due to taking medications or whose teeth have fractured due to an accident may benefit from teeth whitening, dental bonding or veneers. If your child’s mouth is still growing and developing, our dentists may recommend waiting for a period before providing a treatment.
Are my treatment results permanent?
As long as you maintain good oral hygiene at home and continue to visit the dentist regularly, your results should last for many years to come.
Will my insurance cover cosmetic dentistry?
This depends on your dental insurance provider. Insurance coverage and out-of-pocket expenses for cosmetic dental treatments vary. Your treatment may be completely covered, partially covered or not covered at all. If coverage is available, we will coordinate with your insurance provider to maximize your benefits. We also offer several financial options. We will make sure that you know all your treatment costs before beginning treatment so that you can choose the payment options that work with your budget.