This is the final part of our series on the topic of cosmetic dentistry. If you haven’t seen the previous articles, you can see them here and here.
Over-The-Counter vs. In-Office Teeth Whitening
Teeth whitening is a process that can be done in the dentist’s office or at home. According to many dentists, whitening done in-office is the more effective option and will produce better results than the store-bought methods. In-office, Dr. Levine has the ability to solve any sort of dental issues you may be dealing with, such as tooth sensitivity and cavities. He will also make sure that your gums are protected against the whitening agents.
Even though over-the-counter brightening tools are relatively inexpensive, it’s preferable to have a conversation with Dr. Levine before purchasing them.
An in-office brightening could last between one and three sessions, depending on how serious the discoloration is. Dr. Levine administers a strong whitening solution which is triggered through the use of a special light that speeds up the bleaching procedure. You can also have Dr. Levine construct a unique mouthpiece that matches the your teeth for future use in at-home treatments, which will help them maintain the brightening benefits.
Enamel brightening isn’t permanent, so it’s paramount that the patient asks about further treatment options with Dr. Levine.
Dental Veneers
Porcelain veneers are a durable method for individuals who would like small restorative treatments for problems like fractures, gap teeth, and discolored teeth. A Dental practitioner will remove a small amount of enamel—about 1 millimeter— before attaching the veneers to your teeth. When the veneers are finished, it’s almost impossible to discern them from your natural teeth. Taking care of veneers requires nothing out of the ordinary—regular brushing and flossing with non-abrasive toothpaste will keep them healthy and strong. You will most likely be sensitive to hot and cold beverages and foods, although this will only last for a couple of days as you adapt to the changes to your teeth.
In this series, we’ve listed several cosmetic dental options. If you would like to set up a visit with Dr. Levine to discuss these services, you can click here.