High-Quality Cosmetic Dentistry in Denver, CO
Cosmetic dentistry includes dental procedures that improve a person’s teeth and gums, resulting in a better, more noticeable smile. Although the term cosmetic dentistry is commonly referred to as redundant, since general dentistry is aimed at improving the look and feel of a patient’s teeth; the term focuses more of an emphasis on improving the smile and overall appearance of the teeth.
Dentists who practice cosmetic dentistry have extensive experience in techniques that can greatly improve a person’s confidence and give them a new look on life. A smile can be transformed from a no-tooth grin to a full, brilliant, white smile. It is for these reasons that cosmetic dentistry has become more and more popular throughout the United States.
We offer the following cosmetic dentistry procedures in our Denver Colorado dental office:
The application of a tooth-colored resin material to improve the appearance of discolored or chipped teeth, to close the gaps between teeth, to change the shape of a tooth, or to make a tooth look longer. Tooth bonding is performed by using adhesives and a high intensity curing light. Another use for dental bonding is as a substitute for amalgam fillings and to protect a portion of a tooth that has exposed nerves or exposed root from receding gums.
Teeth Bonding
Tooth bonding is the application of a tooth-colored resin material using a high intensity curing light. Typically used in cosmetic dentistry, for cosmetic purposes, tooth bonding literally bonds the materials to the tooth. Applications for tooth bonding include;
- To fill the spaces between teeth
- To make teeth look longer
- To change the shape of a tooth
- To change the color of a tooth
- As an alternative to amalgam dental fillings or to protect a tooth with exposed gum or nerve
- To repair decayed teeth
- To repair chipped or cracked teeth
Tooth bonding, also called dental bonding is a procedure that takes very little time to prepare. Typically, unless the bonding is used on exposed nerves or to fill a decayed tooth, dental bonding does not require the use of anesthetics, making it a fast and comfortable procedure.
Direct Bonding
The process where a dentist uses tooth-colored composites to fill cavities, repair chips or cracks, close gaps and build up worn down teeth. These materials may also be directly applied and sculpted to the surface of teeth in order to maximize the enhancement of a smile.
Adhesive Bonding
Caring for bonded teeth is the same as caring for natural teeth. Brushing twice a day, flossing, and routine check-ups, as directed by your Denver dentist, will help to maintain the bonded teeth and make them last a long time. One thing to avoid with bonded teeth is biting hard objects such as fingernails, ice, or hard types of food.
Dental bonding is a good choice that can solve a number of dental health problems. It is typically the most common and least expensive cosmetic dentistry procedure. Overall dental bonding is a relatively short procedure and requires little to no removal of tooth enamel. It is also relatively pain free and seldom requires the use of anesthetics, making for a short and comfortable dental appointment.
A cosmetic dentistry procedure that is used to replace missing teeth. Dental implants are a long-term solution that results in a healthy, natural looking, and natural feeling smile. Dental implants are surgically implanted into the jawbone and can be a solution for anyone, with the exception of children, looking to fill in the gaps created by missing baby teeth.
Lumineers and “no prep” veneers are very thin veneers that be used with little or no preparation of the teeth and have the ability to completely transform the appearance of permanently stained, chipped, discolored, or misaligned teeth.
A Lumineer is one type of “minimal preparation” or “no-preparation” dental veneer option that is popular by both dentists and patients. Best utilized with patients having only minor tooth rotations and spacing in their smile, Lumineers do not require the dentist to grind, cut or file down any tooth structure for correct placement the majority of the time. This is because most cosmetic dentists remove as little surface enamel as possible, creating life-like teeth for patients. Lumineers are adhesively bonded to the “facial surface” of the teeth, which makes it a minimally invasive procedure as possible.
Lumineers have an ultra-thin (approximately 0.2mm) and highly translucent look. Traditional veneers, on the other hand, are thick and require the grinding down of the original tooth structure. Some of the benefits of Lumineers as opposed to tradition veneers are:
- It is a painless procedure
- It yields sensitivity-free results
- It gives permanently white results
- It is a quick and easy process
Lumineers can be installed in two simple visits, making them an excellent investment of your time. During the first visit to your Denver cosmetic dentist, a custom mold will be taken of the patient’s teeth, which will be used to create personalized veneers to perfectly fit their smile. Then the shade that best fits the patient’s natural smile will be chosen for the Lumineer. During the second visit the Lumineers are checked for fit and shade to ensure they match and look natural. Once the dentist determines the fit and shade are perfect, the Lumineer is attached, painlessly, creating a natural, healthy smile. A Lumineer can be used to treat several dental conditions including:
- Chipped or cracked teeth
- Stained or discolored teeth
- Spaced teeth
- Misshapen teeth
- Slightly crowded teeth
- Worn teeth
- Small teeth
- A beautiful smile
- A substitute for braces
While Lumineers are a great choice for some dental health conditions, they are not the answer to all of the problems one might have. For instance, although Lumineers are a good choice for slightly crooked teeth, they are not recommended for severely misaligned teeth, which would more than likely be better treated with braces or Invisalign. Minimal preparation veneers like Lumineers are a viable alternative to traditional veneers. The manufacturer of Lumineers advertises them as a “no shot, no drilling, no pain” option for getting back a natural, brilliant smile, which attracts patients who want a fast treatment that costs them less money and causes them less pain and discomfort at the same time.
Dr. Radz has completed the Lumineer training, as well as the completed the course work with Durathins. In April of 2011 he was published in a popular textbook, “Esthetic and Cosmetic Dentistry for the Modern Dental Practice.” The chapter he wrote was, “Minimum Thickness Porcelain Anterior Restorations.” Not only has he received the training, but his experience and expertise in the area of thin veneers is recognized throughout the dental profession. For further information please contact Denver Place Dentistry today.
As the name suggests a smile makeover improves a smile through one or more cosmetic dentistry procedures. From teeth whitening, veneers, and tooth-colored fillings to crowns, dental caps, and bridges, a smile makeover covers every aspect of improving a smile.
A Smile Makeover can Improve Your Confidence
As the name suggests, a smile makeover improves a smile through one or more cosmetic dentistry procedures. From teeth whitening, veneers, and tooth-colored fillings to dental crowns, dental caps, and bridges, a smile makeover covers every aspect of improving a smile.
Dr. Radz will carefully examine the patient and through a smile makeover can restore chipped, cracked, or discolored teeth. A smile makeover can also correct a bad bite and restore the muscles of the jaw that are responsible for movement to their original, natural position. The dentist will carefully consider what it is the patient is currently unhappy with, as well as their facial appearance, skin tone, hair color, teeth, gum tissue, and any other aspects that contribute to a beautiful smile.
Attention to these areas will help to achieve the ideal smile for every patient. A smile makeover can remedy a variety of dental health conditions and is considered a comprehensive cosmetic dentistry process. The focus of a smile makeover is to greatly improve both the smile and confidence of the patient by treating the following:
Teeth Discoloration– A smile makeover can restore a smile to its natural appearance by clearing discoloration caused by smoking, coffee, soda or anything else that is in the patient’s food or drink diet that can cause discoloration.
Teeth Misalignment– Misaligned teeth can be straightened and properly aligned through orthodontics or veneers.
Teeth Spacing– The gaps between teeth can be closed and transformed into a natural, gap-free smile.
Missing Teeth– A missing tooth can be replaced by a dental implant or a bridge.
Chipped, Cracked, or Uneven Teeth– This can be remedied by cosmetically bonding them with veneers to improve their appearance.
Tooth Length– As teeth age they wear down and, eventually, they begin to detract from a youthful appearance. A smile makeover can add to the length of these worn teeth and restore them to their glory days. One of the first things noticed when meeting someone for the first time is their smile, making it a very important feature for a first impression. Improving a smile not only improves how someone looks, but it also improves how they feel, giving them confidence.
A smile makeover does not simply make a smile look better and make the patient feel more confident, it also deals with dental health issues, relieving pain and discomfort. For further information please contact Denver Place Dentistry today.
Tooth whitening is the most common cosmetic dentistry procedure performed because it can rapidly and significantly improve the appearance of a smile. There are several different teeth whitening techniques available on the market, from in-office treatments to take-home treatments.
Popular, safe, and effective, teeth whitening has given patients across the world a reason to smile. Your appearance can affect you socially, emotionally, and even in business successes. People who smile with confidence are viewed as warm, inviting, and beautiful. Now, with professional teeth whitening systems, we can help you achieve the pearly whites of magazine models and movie stars.
Chemicals in foods, beverages, and tobacco can change the color of your teeth, as can the effects of aging. Medications such as tetracycline, excessive fluoride, and previous dental work may also cause unsightly stains on your tooth enamel. Genetics can also affect the color of your teeth. While we think of tooth enamel as white, the natural, unstained shade of your teeth can range from pearly white to bluish gray to pale yellow. Even if you brush and floss daily, stains can tarnish your beautiful smile and steal the confident image you want to convey.
In-Office Whitening
In-office whitening such as Zoom Whitening is one of the safest and quickest ways to safely whiten your teeth. During this process, we will place a protective rubber dam around your gums and apply a solution of 15 to 35 percent carbamide peroxide, a chemical found in most bleaching products, to your teeth. Depending on the whitening method, your dentist may also use a laser or special lamp to speed up the bleaching process. In-office whitening can give you dazzlingly white teeth in less than an hour.
Home Teeth Whitening
If you’d prefer not to avoid a dental appointment, we can create clear, customized bleaching trays for you to whiten at home. The professional-grade at-home whitening solution usually contains 10 percent carbamide peroxide. Simply pour the solution into your custom mouth trays and wear them for an hour a day. You will notice whiter teeth almost immediately, but the most dramatic results will appear after one to two weeks of daily treatments.
Over-the-Counter Whitening
You can also purchase home use whiteners over the counter. While there are so many on the market, most of these products are not as effective as the bleaching methods available in our Denver dental office. If you prefer to use a store-bought whitening system, ask us which product would work best for you. We want you to have a smile you will be proud of, so we’re happy to help. Use over-the-counter products as directed, and never use whiteners for more than the recommended time period.
Whitening Toothpastes
If your teeth are sensitive to bleaching, your dentists may recommend a dentifrice (whitening toothpaste). These contain chemical or polishing agents to gently remove stains from the surface of your teeth. While your teeth won’t be as white as if you used a bleaching system, whitening toothpaste is safe, easy to use, and can be purchased over the counter.
After Whitening
With all whitening systems, we advise patients not to eat or drink foods that stain, or to smoke, since recently-whitened teeth absorb stains. Whitening systems can also cause increased sensitivity in your teeth and gums. These side effects pass with time, but if they persist or other problems arise, you should contact your dentist immediately.
Whitening Alternatives
If bleaching and whitening can’t get your teeth as white as you’d like, veneers or dental bonding may be a good solution. These cosmetic dentistry procedures are long lasting and do not discolor or stain. In addition to whitening your smile, veneers and bonding can cover cracks, chips, and slight misalignments. For more information on teeth whitening or to schedule an appointment, please contact us today! Contact our office today.
A silicon dioxide-filled, tooth-colored plastic mixture, composite resins can restore teeth to an attractive, healthy state. Composite resins represent several advantages over traditional silver, or amalgam, dental fillings.
If you’re embarrassed about your smile because of decay or dark fillings in your teeth, you may be a good candidate for composite resins. A silicon dioxide-filled, tooth-colored plastic mixture, composite resins can restore teeth to an attractive, healthy state. Composite resins represent several advantages over traditional silver, or amalgam, fillings. Because composite resins are not made of metal, we can blend and mix shades to find the perfect color to match your natural teeth. This means only you and your Denver dentist will know you have fillings. Another advantage is that the tooth/composite bond actually supports the remaining tooth structure, deterring breakage and insulating against temperature changes. Medium and small composites can last 7 to 10 years – that’s as long as the tried and true amalgams. Best of all, composite resins allow us to keep more of your natural tooth structure intact than amalgams. We believe in conservative dentistry – the more natural tooth structure you keep, the better teeth you’ll likely have in the future.
Some patients experience mild and temporary post-placement sensitivity from composite resin fillings. The only caution we usually mention is that coffee, tea, and other staining foods and beverages may discolor your composites unless you ask to have them coated with a clear plastic sealant.
Ultra-thin shells of tooth colored materials designed to cover the front surface of teeth to improve the appearance of a smile. Veneers are custom designed to fit each patient, in order to ensure a perfect fit and a natural look. Veneers can be used on teeth that are chipped, discolored, misaligned, uneven, worn down, or abnormally spaced.
Cosmetic dentistry is transforming lives through complete smile makeovers, and porcelain veneers lead the list of aesthetic treatments as a wildly popular cosmetic dentistry procedure. If you’re considering porcelain veneers for a new smile, here’s what you can expect…
The First Appointment
You will need to schedule an hour or two for your initial appointment and it’s a good idea to take photos or magazine clippings to show your dentist the kind of smile you prefer. After a thorough examination to assess your oral health and existing dentition, your dentist will discuss with you the kind of smile you envision. Be prepared to discuss the color and shape of your ideal smile at this appointment.
Your Denver dentist will take notes on the shade of your teeth, your facial features, and measurements of your face. He’ll consider your skin tone and facial symmetry when designing your veneers. If you have questions about your veneers or the procedure, your dentist should be happy to give comprehensive answers. You may want to ask to see his portfolio or inquire about digital imaging, which is software that manipulates a photo to predict what you will look like after your smile makeover.
Tooth Preparation
Often during the first appointment, your dentist will gently buff your teeth to remove 1 to 2 mm of enamel in preparation for your new veneers. Tooth reduction will allow the veneers to lie flat, in line with surrounding teeth. Reshaping of teeth may also be required to create the look you want. Your dentist will take an impression of your mouth to send to the lab. Before you leave the dental chair, temporary veneers will be placed. Your teeth may feel sensitive until the permanent veneers are placed.
Behind the Scenes
After your first appointment, your dentist will order your veneers from a dental lab. A talented ceramist will handcraft the porcelain veneers from durable materials that look and function like natural dentition. The information your dentists provide the lab will ensure that you receive veneers that will create a smile that complements your appearance. The lab will ship your veneers to your dentist’s office.
Veneer Placement
A local anesthetic may be administered to ensure your complete comfort during veneer placement. Your dentist will remove the temporary veneers and check the fit of your permanent veneers. You can look at the shape, color, and fit before they are attached. If adjustments need to be made, you should tell your dentist at this time. Veneers cannot be altered once in place.
If all is well, your dentist will permanently bond the new veneers to the front surface of your teeth. First, he will apply a mild acidic solution to clean the surface of your teeth, then he will bond the veneers in place. A small light will cure the bonding material. The dentist will make sure that the veneers allow adequate flossing space. In as few as two visits to our Denver dentist office, you can enjoy a completely new smile! If you’re considering a smile makeover, call us for a consultation. A few veneers may change your life.
Want a Bright Smile?
Zoom! Whitening
Why Zoom!?
After brushing and flossing, do you look in the mirror and wonder why your clean teeth look dingy or yellow? You may have even tried a home whitening system, but found the results disappointing. If this is your life, you need Zoom! Whitening.
A safe and effective system, Zoom! Whitening is used in over 15,000 dental offices internationally. The painless process can remove the toughest stains and create a dazzlingly white, long-lasting smile in just one hour.
