If you have discolored teeth, it can be hard for you to smile and laugh freely. We believe you should never feel like you have to hide your smile. It’s something to be proud of! Dr. Jim Lassiter discusses Milton, FL cosmetic dentistry options that can help you get a white smile you’re not afraid to show off.
Professional Teeth Whitening
When you think of getting your teeth whitened at the dentist, professional teeth whitening is probably what you imagine. It carries many benefits compared to over the counter options. Drugstore whitening solutions are often one size fits all. This leads to blotchy, uneven results, and sensitivity in your gums and soft tissue if the bleaching agent comes into contact with them.
At our office, we offer both in-office and take-home teeth whitening. In-office teeth whitening is ideal for someone who wants results quickly. Dr. Lassiter will apply a gel to the soft tissue to protect it from the bleaching agent. A whitening gel is then applied to your teeth. A special light activates the bleaching agent to penetrate the teeth deeply. When you leave, you’ll have teeth up to eight shades whiter.
Take-home teeth whitening is a more gradual process. Impressions are used to create custom whitening trays for your teeth. Dr. Lassiter will also give you a professional-grade whitening gel. With the custom fit, you’ll get even coverage and won’t have to worry about sensitivity. You’ll wear them for a few hours each night for a number of weeks that Dr. Lassiter will help you determine.
Porcelain Veneers
Not all discoloration is able to be treated with traditional whitening methods. Porcelain veneers offer a suitable alternative. Veneers are made of thin shells of dental ceramic that go over the front and sides of the teeth. The material is designed to be durable and stain-resistant to be a restoration that’s solid for years.
To get veneers, some tooth structure will be removed from the front of your teeth. We want to make sure the veneers lay flat and flush with the rest of your teeth. Impressions will be taken for the veneers to be custom-made. When they’re ready, we’ll fit them to your teeth to make sure they’re comfortable and look the way you want. If you’re satisfied, we’ll permanently bond them to your teeth.
Dental Bonding
If you want an economical option and aren’t ready to commit to a permanent solution, dental bonding may be the right choice for you. The bonding material is a composite resin that’s malleable and able to be shaped. You can treat cosmetic chips or cracks at the same time as whitening.
For bonding, a minimal amount of tooth structure is removed to make sure the material adheres well. Dr. Lassiter will mold the material to the shape of the tooth so it looks natural. It’s color-matched to the shade of white you choose. When you’re happy with the result, it’s cured and hardened with a special light. It’s then polished to match the sheen of natural teeth.
Cosmetic Dentistry in Milton, Florida
Ready to get a whiter smile? Call us or schedule an appointment online.