Cosmetic dentistry

Learn about the various options available
Dec 27, 2011 | Dr. Alina Drosu

I've heard alot about cosmetic dentistry. What is it?

Many people dream of the perfect smile and with the advances in cosmetic dentistry their dreams can become a reality. But what are the steps involved and what options are available?

Composite Fillings

Composite fillings are used to repair a tooth that is affected by cracks, fractures, decay and other common forms natural wear and tear. The decayed or affected portion of the tooth will be removed and then filled with a composite filling.

There are many types of filling materials available, each with their own advantages and disadvantages.  You and your dentist can discuss the best options for restoring your teeth to their natural beauty.

Benefits of composite fillings

• Can repair chipped, cracked, broken, worn and decayed teeth
• Are very durable and last for many years
• Can restore your smile

Porcelain Crowns (Caps)

A porcelain crown (or cap) is a covering that encases an entire tooth surface restoring it to its original size and shape. A crown protects and strengthens a tooth’s composition that cannot be restored with fillings or other types of dental restoration procedures.

Porcelain crowns are the most popular types of crowns because they most closely resemble your natural teeth. Highly durable, porcelain crowns last several years before they will need to be replaced.

Benefits of porcelain crowns

• Restore a natural, beautiful smile
• Repair broken or fractured teeth.
• Repair decayed teeth and fractured fillings.

Porcelain Fixed Bridges

A porcelain fixed bridge is a fixed appliance that can be used to replace missing teeth.

There are several types of bridges including the “traditional bridge”, which tends to be the most popular type due to their close resemblance to natural teeth. The bridge consists of two crowns that go over two anchoring teeth and are attached to artificial teeth (pontics) filling the gap of the missing teeth.

Benefits of porcelain fixed bridges

• Fill space of missing teeth
• Maintain facial structure
• Restore your ability to chew comfortable
• Create a beautiful smile

Teeth Whitening (Bleaching)

Teeth whitening is non-invasive treatment that changes the color of natural tooth enamel.

Teeth Whitening has become the primary cosmetic concern of most dental patients. Fortunately there are a number of ways to brighten your smile. The leading method is using a home teeth whitening system that will whiten teeth dramatically.

Teeth whitening is not a permanent solution and may need to be preformed every few years, specifically if you are a frequent coffee, wine or tea drinker, and if you smoke cigarettes or cigars.

Benefits of teeth whitening:

• Stained teeth due to coffee, cigarettes and medications
• Expose a more beautiful smile

Dr. Alina Drosu graduated in 1995 from the University of Targu Mures in Romania at the age of 23 with a Degree in Dentistry. She moved to Fort McMurray in 1998 and passed the Canadian National Dental Board exams two years later. Dr. Drosu has been a Calgary Dentist since she opened the Dr. Drosu's Dental Centre; where she continues to strive towards being a top quality Calgary SW dentist.

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