COSMETIC DENTISTRY
At Crestwood Dental we take your smile seriously. We focus on the best dental techniques to keep your smile healthy, with procedures ranging from whitening, bonding, veneers, implants, braces, and Invisalign. We personalize dental plans to help you decide the best course of action to improve your smile.
COSMETIC DENTISTRY QUESTIONS
These FAQs provide general guidance on cosmetic procedures, including whitening, bonding, and veneers. Your dentist will review your oral health, aesthetic goals, and lifestyle to determine the most suitable options for your smile.
TEETH WHITENING
How long do whitening results last?
Teeth whitening results can last from 6 months to 2 years, depending on diet, oral hygiene, and habits like smoking or drinking coffee and tea. Occasional touch-ups may be recommended to maintain brightness.
Is professional whitening better than over-the-counter products?
Yes. Professional whitening provides stronger results, custom treatment, and safer application. Over-the-counter products are less effective and may cause uneven whitening or sensitivity.
Does whitening toothpaste really work?
Whitening toothpaste can help remove surface stains but cannot change the natural color of your teeth or treat deeper discoloration. Professional whitening is more effective for noticeable results.
How fast do in-office whitening results show?
In-office whitening results are immediate—most patients notice a visible difference after a single session, though multiple treatments may be recommended for optimal brightness.
VENEERS
What are dental veneers?
Dental veneers are thin, custom-made shells that cover the front surface of your teeth to improve their appearance. They are usually made of porcelain or composite resin and are designed to look like natural teeth.
What problems can veneers fix?
Veneers can correct a variety of cosmetic concerns, including:
- Discolored or stained teeth
- Chipped or worn teeth
- Gaps between teeth
- Minor misalignment
- Irregularly shaped teeth
Do veneers look natural?
Yes. Veneers are custom-made to match the color, shape, and translucency of your natural teeth, giving a seamless and natural-looking smile.
Are veneers permanent?
Veneers are considered a long-term cosmetic solution, but they are not reversible because a small amount of tooth enamel is usually removed during preparation. With proper care, veneers can last 10–15 years or longer.
Can veneers improve my smile shape?
Yes. Veneers can enhance the shape, size, and symmetry of your teeth, improving the overall balance and appearance of your smile.
How many visits does veneer treatment take?
Veneer treatment usually requires 2–3 visits:
- Initial consultation and smile design
- Tooth preparation and temporary veneers
- Placement of the permanent veneers
The exact number of visits can vary depending on your case.
DENTAL BONDING
Does dental bonding look natural?
Yes. Dental bonding is designed to match the color, shape, and appearance of your natural teeth, making it a subtle and natural-looking solution for cosmetic or minor restorative issues.
How long does dental bonding last?
Dental bonding typically lasts 3–10 years, depending on the material, your oral hygiene, and habits like teeth grinding or chewing hard foods. Regular dental checkups help extend the life of bonded teeth.
What is dental bonding?
Dental bonding is a procedure where a tooth-colored resin is applied to a tooth and hardened with a special light, restoring its shape, color, or function. It can repair chips, gaps, discoloration, or minor damage.
What problems can dental bonding fix?
Bonding can address several dental concerns, including:
- Chips or cracks in teeth
- Gaps between teeth
- Discoloration or staining
- Worn-down teeth
- Minor shape imperfections
For more extensive issues, other treatments may be better suited.