Are you dreaming about a picture-perfect smile? Although some people mistakenly assume that straight, white, beautiful teeth are out of reach if they don’t want to endure years or orthodontic care or teeth whitening, the simple fact of the matter is that these kinds of issues can be resolved in a day with state-of-the-art dental veneers.

Dental veneers are thin, tooth-colored masks that are cemented to the front of teeth in order to perfect their appearance. Here are just a few of the different dental problems veneers can be used to correct.

Gaps

Gapped teeth can be caused by simple genetics, prior tooth loss, or even attached labial frenulums that were never resolved. However, dental veneers can be cemented to the front of teeth beside the gap to widen those teeth and close up the space. The area around the sides of the veneer can be filled with tooth-colored composite resin, resulting in teeth that look like they were always perfectly situated and gap-free.

Discoloration

Certain medications, such as tetracycline, or lifestyle habits, such as poor oral hygiene or smoking, can cause severe discoloration, which can be embarrassing to live with. Sometimes, staining can even run so deep that it is impossible to completely remove the discoloration with traditional dental whitening methods. Fortunately, veneers can be used to completely change the color of the teeth. If you are concerned about veneers blending in with the rest of natural teeth, they can also be designed to be the exact same color, so that the repair isn’t visible.

Chipped Teeth

Veneers can be used to rebuild the surfaces of teeth, such as when chips or surface fractures are present. With porcelain veneers, we can make your teeth look even and whole.

Slightly Crooked Teeth

Dental veneers can also be used to correct slightly crooked teeth, since a small amount of the tooth surface will be removed before veneers can be placed. By gently contouring the surfaces of your teeth and installing veneers carefully, your teeth will look much straighter, without orthodontic care. 

Make An Appointment Today

To find out whether or not veneers are right for you, contact Dr. Postol, your cosmetic dentist in Ballwin MO. Dr. Postol loves taking on new dental challenges and doing everything he can to give patients the smile of their dreams. Make an appointment today for a cosmetic dentistry consultation.

As a cosmetic dentist in Ballwin, MO, one of the most common topics we discuss with patients is teeth whitening. Many people are unsatisfied with the color of their teeth and are drawn to the option of whitening as a simple yet effective way to beautify their smile. While there are many available options, not all methods are created equal. Here we will discuss some of the more popular methods and how they work.

Whitening toothpaste

Toothpastes which claim to whiten teeth do so by implementing abrasive ingredients which help to clear away stains on the surface of the tooth. These are available without any prescription and are among the least expensive methods for teeth whitening. Over the course of a few months the teeth may be whitened by a shade or two.

Over-The-Counter Products

These products often contain hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide. They lighten the color of the tooth from deep within, resulting in a somewhat more lasting brightness. These often come in the form of a one-size fits all tray in which you place the whitening solution. The trays are worn at night and the gel is brushed away in the morning.

Rinses

Whitening rinses also contain peroxide. You may see results within 12 weeks, though they are somewhat less effective than strips or gels.

Strips and Gels

These are peroxides which are applied directly to the surface of the teeth, with faster results than toothpastes or rinses. Results are seen in a few days and last about 4 months.

Prescription Trays

Similar to over-the-counter whitening trays, prescription trays are filled with whitening products and worn on the teeth. But unlike those one-size-fits-all products, these whitening trays are custom fitted and designed not to irritate your gums. With the application of a higher concentration of peroxides, results are often seen within a month and can last up to a year.

In-Office Whitening

This method has the fastest results. The product is applied directly to the teeth and combined with heat, light, and/or a special laser. Results are seen in one 30-60 minute visit, though more dramatic results can be achieved after several visits. The chemicals we use in the office are 5-14 times stronger than the over-the-counter products, resulting in a brighter white, sooner, and with more lasting results. We also use protective agents to shield your gum tissue from the effects of the gels, and supervise the entire process. When you have your cosmetic dentist in Ballwin, MO take care of your whitening needs, it removes the guesswork and ensures that you can have a bright, beautiful smile, as safely as possible.

Teeth whitening doesn’t last forever. Depending on your diet, the condition of your teeth, the initial level of staining and the system used, you will need repeat treatment every 1-12 months. We advise that if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, have very sensitive teeth, under age 16 or allergic to peroxide, or if you have gum disease, worn enamel, exposed roots, or tooth colored crowns or fillings, you ask Dr. Postol about your options, as you may not be a candidate for teeth whitening.

But if your teeth are otherwise healthy, and you are interested in our technique for teeth whitening, contact us today to schedule an appointment. Let us make your dreams of a bright, beautiful smile a reality!