Cosmetic Dentistry
Dental Veneers
Dental veneers are custom-made shells that fit over your teeth to improve your smile. Made from either porcelain or composite resin, veneers can help with chipped, stained, or misshapen teeth. They primarily serve a cosmetic role but can also complement gum disease treatments.
Types of Veneers:
Installation Process:
With good care, veneers can last 5-10 years before needing replacement.
Cosmetic Dentistry in San Diego, CA
Traditional dentistry’s main focus is on oral hygiene, diagnosing, treating and preventing oral diseases. On the other hand cosmetic dentistry is meant to improve your smile. Simply put, general, family and restorative dentistry seek to correct dental problems that need treatment, while cosmetic dentistry offers an elective or desired service or treatment.
Cosmetic dentistry can provide restorative benefits too. For example, the most common dental treatment for decayed teeth is dental fillings. Formerly, the majority of dental fillings were made of amalgam, gold and other materials which usually left noticeable dark spots on the teeth. This however has changed due to the development of new technology.
Cosmetic dentistry is focused on improving the appearance of your smile, unlike traditional dentistry, which is primarily concerned with oral hygiene, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of oral diseases. Cosmetic dentistry is elective and intended to enhance the look of your teeth, although it can also offer restorative benefits. For instance, tooth-colored fillings not only treat cavities but also improve the appearance of your teeth.
Advances in technology have led to the development of natural-looking, tooth-colored materials that are more durable and aesthetically pleasing. Cosmetic dentistry also benefits from laser technology, allowing for in-office procedures that are more convenient, comfortable, and require less recovery time.
Several cosmetic dentistry treatments are available:
For those unhappy with their smile, cosmetic dentistry offers many options. It’s important to research and consult with a reputable cosmetic dentist to explore the treatments that can help achieve the smile you desire. Mesa Family Dental is here to assist with all your cosmetic dentistry needs.
Tooth Colored Fillings
Cosmetic Dentistry : Tooth Colored Fillings Aesthetically Pleasing
Tooth-colored fillings are a modern solution for treating cavities and other dental defects. Unlike traditional metal fillings, these are mercury-free and blend seamlessly with your natural tooth color. This type of filling requires less removal of the tooth structure due to its adhesive properties, making the process more conservative.
The procedure for tooth-colored fillings generally requires one visit. The tooth surface is thoroughly dried, adhesive is applied, and the composite material is layered and cured with a special light to bond it securely to the tooth. Some patients may experience temporary sensitivity after the procedure, but this usually subsides within a few days.
Lumineers
Lumineers are ultra-thin porcelain veneers that can dramatically enhance your smile with minimal preparation. Made from a patented, strong Cerinate porcelain, Lumineers are designed to last over 20 years and come with a 5-year warranty.
Traditional veneers often require the removal of a significant amount of tooth structure, but Lumineers need only minimal etching, preserving more of your natural tooth. The process involves two visits: one for taking an impression and the second for fitting the custom-made veneers. This pain-free procedure results in a beautiful, long-lasting smile.
Teeth Whitening
Over time, teeth can become stained from coffee, wine, tea, tobacco, and other common consumables. While good oral hygiene and regular dental cleanings can help, professional teeth whitening offers a more dramatic improvement.
At Mesa Family Dental, we offer both in-office and take-home teeth whitening options. The in-office treatment takes about 120 minutes and can lighten your teeth by 6-10 shades. This procedure uses a special gel activated by a lamp, breaking down stains and whitening your teeth. Results can last 2-3 years before a touch-up is needed. The take-home option involves custom-made trays filled with a strong whitening gel, worn for about two weeks. Both methods are safe and effective, although not recommended for pregnant or nursing women, or children under 16.
Porcelain Veneers
Porcelain veneers are a popular option for improving the appearance of chipped, stained, or misaligned teeth. These custom-made, thin shells are designed to closely resemble natural tooth enamel and are bonded to the front of your teeth.
The process involves preparing the teeth by removing a small amount of enamel to make room for the veneers. After an impression is taken, the veneers are crafted in a lab and then bonded to the teeth during a follow-up visit. While porcelain veneers are permanent and cannot be reversed, they offer a long-lasting solution for a beautiful smile. To maintain their appearance, it’s best to avoid stain-causing substances like red wine, tea, and coffee.
Porcelain veneers can help achieve:
Veneers can be applied to one or multiple teeth depending on your needs and goals.
Certified Invisalign Dentist
Dr. Davoudi possesses a Bachelor of Science in Chemistry from the University of Kentucky, as well as a Doctor in Dental Science degree from Meharry Medical College in Tennessee. She is a valued member of several professional associations, including the American Dental Association (ADA), California Dental Association, San Diego Dental Society, and the International Association of Orthodontics.
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