In Southern New England, you can find quality local dental care. However, not every general and family dentist can both restore and beautify your natural smile. If you need a dental practice that can provide ideal cosmetic and restorative care, you may not know how to proceed.
This comprehensive guide explains how to choose a new cosmetic or restorative dentist in your area, including questions to consider before making your decision.
Key Questions to Consider
Does the practice share detailed information on each cosmetic and restorative procedure on its website?
As you explore our website, take note of our cosmetic and restorative dentistry pages.
Our cosmetic procedures include:
- Teeth Whitening
- Invisalign®
- Porcelain Veneers
- Cosmetic Bonding
Restorative procedures include:
- Dental Crowns
- Dental Bridges
- Dental Implants
- Tooth-Colored Fillings
We also combine cosmetic and restorative treatments in full-mouth rehabilitation.
What are the providers' qualifications and professional accomplishments?
Any dentist can perform cosmetic and restorative procedures, but not all have the same level of education. Our doctors engage in extensive continuing education to refine their skills and learn the newest techniques. They are active in prestigious organizations like the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry. Dr. Cariappa is the only AACD accreditation candidate in the state of RI.
What patient amenities does the practice offer?
Look for features such as comfortable, updated treatment rooms, TVs for patients to relax with a favorite show, and Wi-Fi.
Does the practice accept my dental insurance or offer financing?
Call the practice to discuss your insurance benefits. Your smile is a worthy investment. Ask whether the practice offers membership plans or other savings options.
Are the practice's hours and locations convenient to my home, work, and school?
While many patients travel to access dental care, you can find an excellent provider close to home. We have two practice locations in Stonington, CT and East Greenwich, RI.
Why You Need an Expert Cosmetic and Restorative Dentist
If you receive care from a less experienced practitioner, you may find that your results do not last as long, or have the cosmetic outcome you are hoping for. As a result, you may not be receiving the best value in your care. Our dentists are dedicated to strengthening your smile and improving its appearance.
We believe every dental patient deserves high-quality care. If you have any questions about our services, we are happy to help.
Frequently Asked Questions About Local Dental Care
How can cosmetic dentistry improve my quality of life?
You may believe that cosmetic dentistry is solely about your appearance, but it can also boost your confidence and affect how you feel about yourself. When you have a bright, healthy smile, you will feel more inclined to share it. You may notice enhanced opportunities for both personal and professional growth.
How long do dental crowns last?
Properly maintained, a dental crown should last between 5 and 15 years. Factors affecting a crown's longevity include the material, how it is executed, and homecare and hygiene regimens. Care for your crown as you would a natural tooth..
Which is better: professional or over-the-counter teeth whitening?
Professional whitening lasts considerably longer and provides more noticeable results than over-the-counter treatments. Professional whitening is safer for sensitive teeth and creates an even, attractive smile. You can choose between at-home and chairside whitening depending on whether you want gradual or immediate results.
What are my options for tooth replacement?
At Stonington Dental Associates and Frenchtown Dental Associates, we can restore your teeth with dental bridges or implants. Bridges are less involved and a faster initial option, but implants represent a better long-term value. Dental implants replace both the root and crown of a missing tooth, so they support jawbone health.
Am I a good candidate for dental implants?
Most adults with healthy teeth and gums are good candidates for dental implants. If you have issues like tooth decay or gum disease, we will address them before beginning the implant process.
Which restorative procedures also have cosmetic benefits?
Nearly all restorative procedures can impact your smile's appearance. Crowns, bridges, and implants complete your smile while improving its functionality.
Our expert team at Stonington Dental Associates and Frenchtown Dental Associates wants to help you choose the ideal provider for your needs. Together, we can build a brilliant, healthy smile. Contact us to schedule your consultation today!
Worn down teeth are a common dental and cosmetic concern. Teeth can wear down for a variety of reasons, leaving them looking short. Loss of tooth enamel can also lead to sensitivity, making it uncomfortable to enjoy hot, cold, or sweet foods and beverages. In addition to cosmetic concerns, there are significant functional concerns for the long term health and longevity of worn teeth.
If you have worn teeth you may be wondering if there are cosmetic dental procedures that can restore the length and shape. Depending on the situation, restorative procedures may be able to give you your natural smile back. Find out what solutions Dr. Cariappa and her team have to help fix worn or short teeth for long lasting results.
What Causes Teeth to Become Worn or Short
The common causes of worn down or short teeth include:
- Teeth grinding. If you grind your teeth at night or clench your jaw frequently it can gradually wear away the enamel of your teeth. Dr. Cariappa and her team will dive deeper and help find the reason why you are grinding your teeth, daytime or nighttime.
- Bite misalignment. When the upper and lower teeth come together improperly and unevenly, it can cause the teeth to wear down prematurely.
- Aging. As you age your tooth enamel naturally weakens and your teeth are more likely to wear down. Research shows that in a healthy mouth, the average wear is 1 mm every 100 years. If you have more wear than this it is a concern.
- Acid erosion. Frequent consumption of acidic foods and beverages, as well as an acidic oral environment caused by reflux, can erode your teeth.
Cosmetic Dentistry Solutions for Worn or Short Teeth
The following dental treatments can restore the shape and appearance of your teeth, as well as reduce sensitivity in many cases.
- Cosmetic bonding. Teeth can be reshaped or lengthened using tooth colored composite material. It can be molded to the desired shape and hardened to provide a lasting restoration. This is only an option if your bite has been evaluated and stabilized prior.
- Veneers. Thin shells of porcelain can be adhered to the front of your teeth to make them appear longer and more natural looking. Veneers can also conceal other imperfections such as stains, chips, and gaps.
- Crowns. Dental crowns are tooth-shaped covers that can be placed over the natural teeth to provide a renewed appearance and a stronger chewing surface.
The best treatment for you depends on your dental health functional needs as well as your smile goals.
Benefits of Restoring Worn or Short Teeth
Fixing teeth that are worn down or shortened has both cosmetic and oral health benefits, such as:
- Improved appearance. Having short teeth fixed can make your smile look more natural, resulting in increased confidence.
- Restored dental function. Worn down teeth make it more difficult to bite into certain foods. But restoring the shape and length can improve dental function.
- Reduced sensitivity. If your teeth are sensitive to heat, cold, or sweets, repairing them can minimize the effects.
- Protection for the long term. Worn down teeth are more susceptible to decay. Restoring them offers long-term protection from future damage.
What to Expect During Treatment
Treatment begins with a consultation to discuss your options and an evaluation to assess the current condition of your teeth and oral health. Using the information gathered during the evaluation, such as X-ray images and visual assessments, Dr. Cariappa will make a recommendation for treatment that will help you reach your goals for your appearance as well as your oral health.
The right solution is often what is best for your long-term health and wellness. This may look like a single treatment or a series of procedures over the course of a few months. Each treatment plan is personalized to the specific needs of the patient with comfort as a top priority.
Restoring Your Smile Starts with the Right Care
It is important to address worn or short teeth early. The sooner your teeth are restored to their proper length and shape, the lesser the chances of developing irreparable damage. If you have noticed that your teeth appear worn down or uneven, contact Stonington and Frenchtown Dental Associates to schedule a consultation.
Frequently Asked Questions About Cosmetic Dentistry for Worn Teeth
Can worn teeth be restored without crowns?
In many cases, yes. Cosmetic bonding and veneers are often sufficient to repair worn down teeth. But each case is different. If the damage to the tooth is too significant, a crown may be needed to provide a lasting and successful restoration.
How long do cosmetic dental treatments last?
Results often depend on the type of treatment. Cosmetic bonding may last anywhere from 3-10 years. Porcelain veneers and dental crowns have an average lifespan of 10-15 years.
At Stonington and Frenchtown Dental Associates, we are dedicated to helping our patients achieve healthy, confident smiles through personalized care and advanced cosmetic dentistry solutions. Our team takes the time to understand your goals and recommend treatments that restore both function and appearance. If you are ready to improve worn or short teeth, we are here to guide you every step of the way. Contact us today to schedule a consultation.
When it comes to replacing lost teeth, you have multiple viable options. Two of the most popular tooth-replacement options we offer are dental implants and bridges. While these both replace missing or lost teeth, they differ significantly in lifespan and oral health benefits.
This blog shares why you should always replace missing teeth, explains the differences between dental implants and bridges, and helps you decide which option is best for your smile.
Lifespan of Implants vs. Bridges
As long as the dental implant integrates well, an implant can last decades or possibly a lifetime with careful maintenance. The crown on top may need to be replaced every 10 to 15 years due to normal wear and tear.
A dental bridge may only last for 5 to 15 years, and when it wears out, we will need to replace the entire appliance. Over time, an implant will be a significantly better value than a bridge.
Reasons to Replace Missing Teeth
If you have a few missing teeth, you may believe that replacing them is a luxury. Many patients who have one or two missing teeth choose to live with the gaps in their smile. However, if you choose not to replace your lost teeth, you could face significant oral health challenges in the future.
Your jawbone may recede, causing facial changes and ageing your appearance. Your teeth may shift and become crowded, or develop additional gaps, increasing the likelihood of tooth decay. The longer you live with a gap in your smile, the more likely you are to experience oral health issues.
If you do not replace missing teeth, you may feel self-conscious and reluctant to smile. Others may make mistaken assumptions about your character. Maintaining a complete smile makes it easier to interact with others. When you are ready, we can fill the space with a new dental implant or bridge to restore your natural smile.
What Sets Dental Bridges and Implants Apart?
Dental Bridges
A traditional dental bridge requires you to have healthy teeth on either side of the gap. We will place crowns on these abutting teeth to support the artificial tooth, called pontics. A bridge rests on top of the gum. It provides a complete smile and improved chewing and speech.
Pros:
- More affordable upfront than dental implants
- Faster process to replace your missing tooth
- Can replace up to three teeth in a row
Cons:
- Short-lived compared to dental implants
- Must place crowns on teeth adjacent to the gap, potentially weakening them
- Food and debris may catch under the bridge, making it challenging to keep the teeth and gums clean
Dental Implants
Pros:
- Last significantly longer than dental bridges of any type
- The dental implant integrates with the jawbone, creating a solid base for your restoration
- Easy maintenance, requiring no more daily care than natural teeth
- While a traditional implant replaces only one tooth at a time, implant-supported dentures can replace an entire arch if needed.
Cons:
- Surgical placement means that some patients may not be eligible for implants (especially patients with uncontrolled diabetes or other conditions impacting healing)
- The process takes longer than getting a bridge; a bridge only takes a few months, while a traditional dental implant may take longer, depending on whether preparatory procedures like bone grafts are needed.
- Implants cost more up front, but are a better value for the cost over time
Deciding Between Dental Implants and Bridges
Making this decision can be a challenge. It may depend on financial or practical considerations. Health and wellness could also play a part. We can help you break down the decision between these two tooth replacement options when you come in for a consultation. Share your concerns with our doctors and we will provide guidance.
Frequently Asked Questions About Dental Implants
How much extra maintenance and oral hygiene does a dental bridge require?
Cleaning a dental bridge takes longer than cleaning a single implant. You must use special tools, such as floss threaders and interdental brushes, to reach under your bridge and remove any food or plaque. If you have trouble maintaining your oral hygiene, an implant may be a better option.
Between implants and bridges, which option is better for my oral health?
Implants are better for overall oral health. Since they replace both the tooth and the root, they preserve jawbone health and have a more stable fit. Since they are so much easier to keep clean, they do not promote dental decay in the way a bridge might if you do not practice excellent oral hygiene.
What is the success rate for dental implants?
Dental implants succeed about 95% of the time with proper maintenance and care. Occasionally, patients experience an infection called peri-implantitis which could endanger the appliance. Watch out for signs of infection, gum recession, and discomfort and report them to us immediately.
How do I maintain my dental implant to help it last longer?
Keep your implant clean with the same care you give a healthy natural tooth. Brush, floss, and see us at least every six months for regular cleanings.
Our team at Stonington Dental Associates and Frenchtown Dental Associates is ready to help you complete your smile. We can answer your questions about dental implants and bridges and help you decide which option is best for you. Contact us to schedule your consultation today!
Cosmetic dentistry can transform the way you feel about yourself. With a brighter smile, you may open doors both personally and professionally. Working with a trusted practitioner to refine your smile is an excellent way to invest in your quality of life. Whether you need a touch-up whitening treatment or a full set of dental veneers, find a provider you can trust.
A Guide to Finding Your Ideal Cosmetic Dentist
Explore Available Procedures
You likely have a specific issue you would like to address with your new dentist. Check the dentist's website and note their specialties. Keep in mind that your dentist will present you with a range of options.
Research the Dentist's Qualifications
Dive deeper into the practice's website, where your provider should share their education and professional accomplishments. For example, our Dr. Cariappa is a member of the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry and has received comprehensive education on the newest and most effective procedures. Additionally, Dr. Cariappa is the only dentist in RI pursuing a board certification in cosmetic dentistry. You can also research a prospective doctor online, checking for publications and professional memberships.
Ask Friends and Family
You can get a sense of the dentist's local reputation by speaking to friends and colleagues. If a patient loves their dental practice, they'll share this with you.
Search Online Reviews
Online reviews can help, but bear in mind that they might be biased. Use review sites with many entries for your new dentist and note the overall opinion.
Check Local and National Awards
Many magazines and local organizations give awards to medical and dental providers. Find these publications in your area and look for your cosmetic dentist.
Frequently Asked Questions About Cosmetic Dentistry
What is the difference between composite bonding and veneers?
Cosmetic bonding involves applying a tooth-colored composite to refine the appearance of the teeth. Part art and part science, bonding can cover chips, gaps, and other minor issues. Porcelain veneers are thin sheets of porcelain cemented to the teeth. Porcelain has a unique shine that closely matches the appearance of healthy tooth enamel. Veneers are a more expensive option than bonding, but they last longer with proper care. Veneers also are more stain resistant and durable than bonding.
Can teeth whitening make me look younger?
Yes, teeth whitening can help turn back the clock on your appearance. Teeth naturally turn yellow or gray with aging, and whitening treatments can help.
Stonington Dental Associates and Frenchtown Dental Associates work together to bring highly advanced cosmetic dental techniques to Southern New England. We look forward to meeting you and your family and providing the finest quality of care close to home. Please contact us at your convenience today!
The science of dentistry continues to evolve, bringing beneficial change to general dentistry procedures. Guided biofilm therapy (GBT) is a new protocol that revolutionizes the standard dental cleaning or prophylaxis.
When using this new system, your hygienist does not need to scale or scrape the teeth. Spinning polishers and cold water blasts to your gums are no more, replaced by gentle air, warm water, and a fine, soft powder.
This blog will explain the problems associated with biofilm buildup, the steps in a GBT prophylaxis procedure, and the advantages of this treatment.
Guided Biofilm Therapy Step-by-Step
Step 1: Revealing Biofilm Buildup
One of the driving forces behind GBT dental cleaning is a desire to keep patients informed. The educational aspect of a GBT cleaning takes center stage in the first step.
Before beginning the procedure, your practitioner will evaluate your oral health and target any developing issues such as tooth decay and gum disease.
The next step is rinsing with a special dye that marks the location of all biofilm deposits on the teeth. Biofilm is an umbrella term covering plaque, calculus (tartar), and bacteria. These purple-dyed deposits reveal the areas the hygienist needs to focus on during the procedure. Additionally, the dye's color indicates areas of acidity and the potential for cavity-causing bacteria.
Your dentist and hygienist will review these images with you and point out any areas you may have missed in your home oral hygiene. Many patients are surprised to learn that they remove far less biofilm than they believe through brushing and flossing alone.
Step 2: Removing Biofilm Buildup
The removal process begins with air- and pressurized-water-powered tools to remove biofilm and stains. Warm water keeps sensitive patients more comfortable.
We use AIRFLOW® Plus powder to remove stains, biofilm buildup, and early-stage calculus. Made from erythritol, AIRFLOW® Plus clears these substances from hard and soft oral tissues as well as implants and orthodontic appliances. This dental powder is both gentle and powerful, equaling or exceeding the cleaning power of traditional instruments.
Step 3: Effective Treatment for Gum Disease and Peri-Implantitis
AIRFLOW® Plus combines the cleaning properties of erythritol and the antibacterial quality of chlorhexidine digluconate to remove biofilm and early deposits of calculus before they can cause oral health problems. The powder includes an antibacterial component and can clean periodontal pockets up to 9 mm deep.
AIRFLOW® Plus also helps to treat peri-implantitis (a gum infection that can cause implant failure) by cleansing deeply between the teeth and gums.
Who Benefits Most From Guided Biofilm Therapy
While every dental patient stands to benefit from this new procedure, certain patients may find it significantly easier than standard prophylaxis:
- Hesitant or Fearful Patients: The sounds and sensations of dental cleaning can provoke anxiety. Guided biofilm therapy is considerably quieter than a traditional procedure, free of the sound of scalers and spinning tools.
- Patients With Sensitive Teeth and Gums: Scalers and cold-water rinses can cause discomfort. Guided biofilm therapy has a gentler approach.
- Children: The youngest patients can receive a gentle, calm introduction to dental care. Many children find GBT considerably easier to tolerate than traditional prophylaxis.
About GBT Certified Practices
As a GBT Certified practice, we take pride in the quality of care our patients receive. We participate in ongoing continuing education that helps us refine our approach to Guided Biofilm Therapy and connect with other network providers.
Frequently Asked Questions About General Dentistry
How often should I receive guided biofilm therapy cleanings?
Generally, most patients need a cleaning once every six months. Patients with a high risk of tooth decay or gum disease may require more frequent appointments.
Is a GBT cleaning just as good as a standard cleaning?
Guided biofilm therapy is more effective than the standard procedure. You will be impressed at the level of cleanliness compared to the procedure you once received.
Stonington Dental Associates in Pawcatuck, CT, and Frenchtown Dental Associates in East Greenwich, RI, provide highly advanced care in two convenient locations. Contact us today to schedule an appointment at the location closest to you.
Many patients view cosmetic dentistry as a luxury because they believe it only benefits their appearance. They may feel reluctant to invest in cosmetic dental work and often live with missing or damaged teeth. Cosmetic dentists would like their patients to know that these procedures offer value beyond appearances. This blog explains how cosmetic dentistry can improve not only your smile, but also your oral health and quality of life.
Cosmetic Dentistry Can Improve Your Oral Health
Many cosmetic dental procedures can also positively impact your oral health. Replacing a missing tooth with a bridge or implant lowers your risk of orthodontic problems, maintains a healthy bite, and may reduce your risk of tooth decay, gum disease, and future loss of additional teeth. Crowns and other appliances simultaneously restore function and improve the appearance of your smile.
Your Smile Affects Your Mood
If you have a missing or damaged tooth, you already know how this issue can dampen your mood. You may feel reluctant to smile because you don't want others to see your teeth. You may avoid social situations or give others a mistaken impression of your true character.
When you work to upgrade your smile, you may notice a difference in your attitude toward life. You'll be more open to social activities and feel better about yourself.
Brilliant Smiles Create Opportunities
People who hide their smiles may also miss personal and professional opportunities. In many professions, a ready smile is essential to success. If your job involves frequent meetings or public visibility, you will notice that more people want to interact with you.
Our Cosmetic Dental Procedures
Teeth Whitening
Teeth naturally turn yellow or gray. With professional teeth whitening, you can turn back the clock and regain the bright, vibrant smile you remember. If you enjoy dark-colored foods and beverages like chocolate, red wine, and berries, we can remove these stains.
Professional tooth whitening is far more effective than over-the-counter products. Since we guide you in every step, your treatment will be safer than over-the-counter solutions and less likely to cause excess sensitivity.
Invisalign®
This system makes straightening your teeth discreet and straightforward. As you progress through a series of graduated plastic aligners, your teeth will shift back to their ideal positions. Invisalign can correct minor to moderate bite issues and help prevent future gum issues and cavities. Straight teeth are healthy teeth!
Discretion, convenience, and comfort are the three top advantages to consider.
Dental Veneers
Veneers offer an effective solution to aesthetic issues. In just two appointments, we can place ceramic or composite veneers that correct the appearance of chips, gaps, stains, and slight irregularities in shape.
Ceramic veneers, when done conservatively and adequately, can have a long-lasting, useful life. They may be more costly than other options, but if refining your smile is important to you, they may be your preferred option.
Cosmetic Bonding
Bonding can fix chipped and gapped teeth as well as other aesthetic and functional issues. Bonding is highly customizable and also easily repaired when it begins to wear out. We specialize in transitional bonding for adolescents.
Cosmetic Gum Reshaping
If you feel you have a “gummy” smile, we can reshape it using advanced techniques. Addressing your gumline can enhance your appearance and boost your confidence.
Crowns, Bridges, and Implants
These offer great solutions for those with missing teeth. Replacing lost teeth is a great way to reverse the damage of age and make one's smile feel more harmonious and complete.
Full Mouth Rehabilitation
Using a combination of the techniques described above, we can provide a comprehensive smile refresh. Our doctor chooses procedures tailored to your needs.
Our Doctor’s Unique Qualifications and Expertise
When you visit us at either of our Southern New England locations, you can connect with our highly qualified doctors. Dr. Cariappa spends an average of 100 hours per year in continuing education to learn new techniques and hone her skills. She introduces novel procedures and innovative treatment protocols to enhance smiles.
Dr. Cariappa focuses on restoring function while perfecting your smile’s appearance. Her treatment approach is comprehensive yet conservative.
Frequently Asked Questions About Cosmetic Dentistry
Why should I seek cosmetic dental treatments?
Cosmetic dentistry represents an investment in your quality of life and, in many cases, can improve your oral health. Cosmetic dentistry is more than an indulgence: it can change the way you see yourself, and the way you function. Missing, damaged, or aesthetically flawed teeth can lower self-esteem and interfere with daily health.
How many appointments does it take to whiten my teeth?
In the office, whitening your teeth may only take a few hours. Some patients with deeper staining may need more than one appointment. If you want a more gradual effect, try our at-home whitening options.
At Stonington Dental Associates and Frenchtown Dental Associates, we provide advanced, compassionate care for your family. We welcome you to our convenient locations in Rhode Island and Connecticut. Please reach out to us to schedule an appointment or book a consultation today.
If you feel dissatisfied with your smile, you may wish to ask your dentist for cosmetic dentistry options. Both teeth whitening and veneers are excellent choices in different situations. This blog explains how teeth whitening and veneers work and shares the answers you need to make an informed decision.
About Teeth Whitening
In-office teeth whitening is one of the quickest ways to improve the appearance of your smile. It works best for patients with healthy teeth and gums.
Teeth whitening works by applying a potent hydrogen or carbamide peroxide gel to the tooth surfaces exposed when you smile. This gel travels through the tiny pores in your natural enamel and oxidizes dark stains from food, beverages, and lifestyle factors.
Our practice provides professional teeth whitening both in the office and with custom at-home kits. For an at-home kit, we create a personalized tray to wear in the comfort of your home. Treatment time varies. At-home whitening may take a few weeks longer than in-office treatment, but it is an excellent option for those who prefer a subtle approach.
About Veneers
Composite Veneers
Thanks to recent advances in dental technology, we can now use tooth-colored filling materials to restore chipped, uneven, and discolored teeth in just one appointment. Applying composite veneers requires a blend of artistic and technical skills, since your practitioner will mold and shape the resin to your teeth. Often, multiple layers are used to create a natural look that blends with your existing teeth.
Porcelain Veneers
A porcelain veneer consists of a wafer-thin sheet of durable, stain-resistant material applied to a prepared tooth. Porcelain is an aesthetically pleasing material with a sheen and luster similar to healthy, natural tooth enamel. Veneers are used to cover cracks, correct a tooth’s position, remove gaps, and improve the color, texture, and appearance of your teeth. Placing custom veneers requires a high degree of technical skill as well as attention to cosmetic detail.
Differences Between Porcelain and Composite Veneers
Porcelain veneers are more durable than composites, but if they chip or break, the entire veneer will need to be replaced. For composite veneers, your dentist may be able to repair them with a matching resin. Additionally, porcelain veneers have superior stain resistance compared to composites
Pros and Cons of Whitening and Veneers
Teeth Whitening
Pros:
- Teeth whitening is a relatively inexpensive option compared to veneers.
- In-office whitening usually provides impressive results in a single appointment. Our dentists use expert methods to make whitening safe for sensitive teeth.
Cons:
- Whitening treatments need periodic repetition to maintain a brilliant appearance.
- Lack of dental supervision may result in over-whitened teeth that stain easily and feel sensitive. A trusted cosmetic dentist can help you avoid this issue.
Dental Veneers
Pros:
- Veneers can correct not only tooth hue and brightness, but also chips, gaps, and a slightly uneven or misshapen appearance.
- The process of receiving veneers typically takes only two appointments.
Cons:
- Porcelain veneers cost significantly more than teeth whitening, but their durability and stain resistance may mean the investment is worthwhile.
- Since your cosmetic dentist must remove a thin layer of enamel to affix the veneers, you will need to continue replacing them as they wear out.
Maintaining Your New Look
With either cosmetic option, you will need to pay close attention to maintenance and oral hygiene. After teeth whitening, you will need to limit darkly pigmented foods that will stain. These foods and beverages include red wine, coffee, tea, and berries. If you do enjoy these items, rinse your teeth with water as soon as possible.
Veneers offer greater stain resistance than teeth whitening and greater durability, but you will need to take care not to chip or break them. Veneers can withstand normal chewing and biting forces, but may chip if you chew popcorn kernels, ice, pens, or other hard items. Avoid using your teeth to open packages or hold items.
The Value of a Beautiful Smile
Investing in teeth whitening or veneers can be a significant opportunity to change how you feel about yourself and how others perceive you.
If you have felt uneasy about your teeth, you already know how this feeling impacts your social life and self-confidence. If you feel the need to hide your teeth, you may not share your smile as freely as you would like, whether in person or in photos.
Frequently Asked Questions About Cosmetic Dentistry
Is over-the-counter teeth whitening a viable alternative to professional products?
While most over-the-counter whitening products available in pharmacies and supermarkets are safe and effective, they take much longer to work. Strips, rinses, and toothpaste can only go so far. For a completely stain-free smile, we recommend professional whitening techniques.
Our teams at Stonington Dental Associates and Frenchtown Dental Associates proudly care for patients in eastern Connecticut and Rhode Island. We offer advanced procedures to help our patients achieve optimal oral health. With questions or to schedule your appointment, please get in touch with us today!
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