Cosmetic Dentistry

A healthy, bright and beautiful smile enhances our appearance and gives us confidence and well-being. We provide a smile analysis as part of our new patient examination and we take the necessary time to address your concerns and fulfill your wishes. Our goal is always to give you a comfortable and rewarding experience using all that modern cosmetic dentistry has to offer, such as:

• Veneers
• Tooth Whitening, Bleaching, Take-home Whitening
• Bonding
• Invisalign^®

Veneers

Dental veneers are custom-designed shells of tooth-like ceramic material that, when applied over the surface of a tooth, can cover worn tooth enamel, uneven tooth alignment or spacing, and chips or cracks.

Dental veneers fall into the category of cosmetic dentistry because they create a bright, white smile with beautifully aligned, shapely teeth. Even better, the translucent ceramic quality of today's veneers provides a more natural look compared to what has been available in the past.

Dental veneers may solve most or even all of your cosmetic dental issues, including:

• Worn enamel
• Wear and tear
• Abnormal spacing
• Uneven teeth

Veneers are custom-made by a dental laboratory to ensure they complement the shape and colour of your surrounding teeth and overall smile. They are made out of high quality, durable porcelain and, if properly cared for, will last a long time.

Generally the procedure will take 2 visits. The first involves preparation of the teeth, including re-shaping of the surface of the natural teeth to allow for the thickness of the veneer. An impression of the teeth is then taken for the lab and the shade is agreed upon by you and the dentist. Temporary restorations are provided for you at this stage.

On the second visit, bonding cement is applied and the veneer(s) are placed comfortably into the mouth. A special light is used to harden and set the bond. We will make every effort to ensure the new veneers feel just like your natural teeth and you now have a beautiful restored smile.

Tooth Whitening

Tooth whitening (or bleaching) is a simple, non-invasive procedure used to change the colour of tooth enamel that has become darkened or stained. There are many reasons that teeth may become discoloured including:

• Smoking
• Dark food or drinks – e.g. wine, coffee, berries, soy sauce
• Medication - tetracycline or some antihistamines
• Age - enamel often breaks down over time allowing the underlying dentin, which has a natural yellow or brown colour, to show through
• Genetics – some people naturally have brighter or thicker enamel then others
• Excessive fluoride – high doses of fluoride may result in white spots

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

We offer both the KöR Deep Bleaching in-office and Discus Dental's NiteWhite take-home whitening systems:

KöR Deep Bleaching System

Developed by internationally renowned cosmetic dentist and bleaching expert Dr. Rod Kurthy, the KöR Whitening Deep Bleaching™ System is used by thousands of dentists worldwide. It is considered to be the most reliable and effective bleaching system ever developed. KöR can whiten teeth dramatically - 16 shades or more! It is the only recognized whitening system that whitens even tetracycline-stained teeth in a short time (previously thought to be impossible).

KöR provides consistent results. In most cases, the KöR whitening gel produces little to no sensitivity and patients do not experience discomfort. Also with easy, occasional maintenance at home, the results are maintained, even if you drink tea, coffee, or red wine.

The first appointment involves taking molds of your teeth to fabricate your own unique and comfortable bleaching trays. You and the dentist will select what brightening level is right for you. Next you will have an initial whitening treatment and take home your custom-made trays and will wear them overnight for approximately 2 weeks. Finally, you return to our office for one last whitening treatment and leave with WOW added to your appearance. For more information and testimonials about the KöR Whitening System, please visit their website at www.korwhitening.com.

NiteWhite Take-Home Whitening System

The NiteWhite system generally requires two visits. At the first appointment, impressions are made of your teeth to fabricate custom, clear plastic trays.

At your second appointment, you try on the trays for proper fit, and adjustments are made if needed. The trays are worn with a special whitening solution once a day for 45 minutes for 10-14 days depending on the degree of staining and your desired level of whitening. It's normal to experience some tooth sensitivity during the time you are whitening your teeth, but it subsides shortly after you have stopped bleaching.

You will receive care instructions to take with you for your teeth and trays. Refill kits of whitening gel can be obtained from our office for when you want a touch up.

Bonding

Bonding is a procedure that can be used to quickly and easily cosmetically adjust the shape of your teeth. It can be used on teeth that are chipped or discoloured and can fill in minor gaps between teeth as an alternative to veneers in some cases.

The procedure consists of lightly etching the surface of the tooth and applying a bonding liquid. Once the liquid sets, a plastic resin is applied and sculpted into the desired shape by the dentist. Once set, the resin is trimmed and smoothed to a natural appearance.

Bonding is a great way to greatly improve your smile in one visit. The materials used are not as strong as your natural teeth and can chip, but should last between 3 and 5 years with proper care before repair is needed.

Invisalign^®

Invisalign^® can be your path to straight, healthy teeth and a confident smile. Georgia Dental is proud to provide this innovative teeth straightening option to our patients. Learn more about Invisalign^®.