Looking good and feeling good are often closely related. Improving your self-image can be as simple as brightening your smile. Changing the size, shape, color or spacing of your teeth can be accomplished with cosmetic bonding, porcelain veneers or porcelain crowns. Orthodontic treatment or "braces" can be used to straighten teeth on both children and adults.

BLEACHING (TOOTH WHITENING)
Tooth shade varies from person to person, and also darkens with age or with years of stain from foods, liquids and tobacco. Bleaching or tooth whitening is an easy, safe and conservative way to lighten the shade of your teeth. The most common type of bleaching is done at home with the use of customized trays and a bleaching gel. The gel is safe and effective and results in little or no sensitivity.

Some people may not be ideal candidates for bleaching due to anterior crowns or restorations. These restorations will not change color, but they will not be harmed. These restorations can be replaced after bleaching treatment to match the new tooth shade. Some teeth such as those internally stained with tetracycline may not respond to tooth whitening procedures.

COSMETIC BONDING
Cosmetic bonding involves changing the shape, size, position or color of the teeth by bonding filling material to the teeth. This is a very conservative cosmetic procedure and is also more economical short-term than more permanent porcelain crowns or veneers (see below). However, the bonding can stain over time and may need to be replaced every few years.

PORCELAIN CROWNS/VENEERS
Porcelain crowns or veneers are placed to alter the shape, size, position or color of the teeth. Veneers are fabricated to cover the front surfaces of the teeth and are cemented into place. Veneers can be used to close gaps between teeth or to cover discoloration, including discoloration due to tetracycline staining. Veneers are very strong once cemented into place and will last for many years.

Full coverage porcelain crowns may be recommended for teeth with large restorations or for teeth previously treated with root canal therapy. Teeth with darker staining may also need a full coverage porcelain crown to adequately achieve the desired result.

ORTHODONTICS
Over 75% of children can benefit from some form of orthodontic treatment. Orthodontics can be used to gain space or to straighten teeth. "Braces" can be placed for children or adults. Not only will straightening your teeth create a beautiful smile, it can also improve tooth function and make it easier to keep your teeth clean. This will result in better oral health for a lifetime.