Cosmetic Dentistry

Veneers

Veneers are extremely thin, strong pieces of tooth-shaped porcelain that are bonded to the visible parts of front teeth. Most often, veneers are used to improve the cosmetic appearance of teeth, but they can also be used in some cases as an alternative to crowns to repair fractured teeth and correct misalignments. Veneers can correct severely stained or discolored teeth, undesirable spacing, and unevenness of teeth.

What is involved in getting veneers?

Most commonly, veneers are completed in two visits, with little to no anesthetic needed since very little of the natural tooth needs to be removed. At the first visit, the teeth to be treated are lightly prepared by roughening the surface. Then, the dentist will make an impression of the teeth to be sent to the lab. With the guidance of the dentist, you will select the most appropriate shade/color for your newly-improved teeth.

When you return for the second visit, the porcelain veneers are evaluated to ensure they fit perfectly and achieve the desired result. The restorations are then bonded directly to your natural tooth, and a special light is used to harden the cement.

With proper brushing and flossing at home and routine professional cleanings, you can expect your veneers to last many years.

Crowns

A crown is a dental restoration that covers and protects an entire tooth. A crown is often called for when a tooth is badly broken. Crowns can also help correct misalignment of teeth, chips or cracks in teeth, or discolored teeth. Many people refer to crowns as “caps.” There are many types of crowns that each have their own advantages and disadvantages. If your tooth needs a crown, Dr. Zerbinopoulos will work with you to select the most appropriate type for that tooth.
Traditionally, a minimum of two appointments were needed to complete treatment with crowns. However, in many cases, we are now able to use CEREC technology to finish your crown in a single visit!

Zoom! Whitening

Tooth whitening (or bleaching) is a simple, non-invasive dental treatment used to change the color of natural tooth enamel and is an ideal way to enhance the beauty of your smile. Having whiter teeth has become the number one esthetic concern of dental patients.

Our office offers Zoom! Whitening. This procedure is performed in a single visit. A special whitening gel is placed onto your teeth by the dentist or a staff member. Then, while you relax, a unique light is applied to your teeth. The result is the elimination of most stains caused by external sources (food, drink, smoking, etc.).

Since tooth whitening only works on natural tooth enamel, it is important to evaluate replacement of any old fillings, crowns, etc.  Replacement of any restorations will be done after bleaching so they will match the newly bleached teeth.

Tooth whitening is not permanent.  A touch-up maybe needed every few years, and more often if you smoke, drink coffee, tea, or wine.