Cosmetic Dentistry
In general, a cosmetic procedure refers to a service that is a ‘like to have’ and not a ‘need to have’. For example, some procedures are completed with the sole purpose of improving the esthetic presentation of the tooth/teeth. This is the case in teeth whitening procedures, since whitening improves the appearance of the teeth but has no effect on the function and overall health of the teeth.
Color & Shape
If you are concerned that your teeth are not as white as you’d like, or that your teeth are not all ideal in their shape, your dentist may offer you whitening, bonding or veneers, depending upon your specific needs. Whitening is a procedure that can be performed at the end of your regular checkup or at an independent appointment. Your dentist uses clinical strength peroxide bleaching products that are the most effective products available. The clinical setting offers additional benefits such as gum barriers and rehydrating solutions to make your experience as comfortable as possible.
If you don’t need to whiten all of your teeth, your dentist may suggest a veneer. A veneer is a colour-matched shell that replaces the visible outside of the tooth. Your tooth will need to be slightly prepared to ensure a strong adhesive bond, so the procedure is non-reversable but generally stronger than bonding.
Bonding is an alternative to veneers which uses a composite material to reshape a tooth that has been broken or chipped. The material is made to match your natural teeth and is often undetectable once in place.
Looking to get in touch?
Lotus Dental Wellness is always happy to accept new patients, from individuals to families to people just visiting the area. We also offer Emergency Same-Day Appointments for those experiencing dental emergencies. Lotus Dental Wellness follows the Alberta Dental Fee Guide and offer direct billing for convenience. We look forward to seeing your smile!
Retaining or Replacing a Tooth
If you have suffered trauma to a tooth or if infection requires root canal therapy, your dentist will likely recommend a cap or crown. It is possible to close a root canal with filling material, but it is far more common for a crown to be placed over the tooth to reinforce its strength, seal it from bacteria, and prevent breakage and sensitivity.
When closing a gap, either for purely cosmetic reasons or to prevent neighboring teeth from drifting, your dentist is likely to discuss bridges or implants with you. A bridge will essentially anchor a prosthetic tooth to a neighbouring tooth on either side. The prosthetic tooth sits against gum tissue but does not penetrate it.
If you are interested in a more tooth-like replacement, talk to your dentist about dental implants. Since these prosthetic teeth are anchored into the bone, you will need to understand the steps involved in getting an implant in order to make an informed decision.
Finally, for those patients who are interested in full replacement of both dental arches, dentures and all-on-four dentures may be available. All-on-four dentures use a total of multiple dental implants to anchor a full set of dentures. If you have questions about these or other services offered by our general dentist, contact our clinic today!