Cosmetic Dentistry

Invisalign
Invisalign® is a revolutionary way to help you get even, straight teeth without noticeable, painful metal braces. Virtually undetectable, Invisalign® aligners are made of strong, clear plastic that gradually guides your teeth into perfect alignment. Unlike metal braces, they have no wires or brackets on which your lips or gums can snag. During your first evaluation, we will help you determine if Invisalign® is a good option for you. We'll then design a treatment plan and take tooth impressions, from which Invisalign® will develop accurate, personalized tooth-straightening devices, called aligners. Aligners slide directly over your teeth and are replaced every two weeks as your teeth are moved into place. Depending on the individual case, they will be worn full-time (except when eating or drinking) for 12 to 24 months—no longer than you would wear traditional metal braces—and we will check your progress about every six weeks.

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Tooth Colored Fillings

In the past, cavities could only be treated with unsightly metal fillings that are alloys of silver and mercury or more expensive gold restorations. The best (longest lasting) being those made of gold which is somewhat price prohibitive these days. The silver fillings, especially when close to the front of the mouth, are highly noticeable and unaesthetic. Sometimes, the filling is so large that it causes discoloration of the entire tooth. These fillings (or restorations) do not bond to the remaining tooth structure and leave the remaining tooth structure vulnerable to fractures due to the large amount of the original tooth that has to be removed. Some sources indicate there is a risk of mercury poisoning that is used in the filling. However the American Dental Association and other health agencies state that there is not a risk with amalgam fillings. Our office discontinued the use of the amalgam (Silver/Mercury) restorations several years ago, not because we believe they are toxic to patients but they are not a natural looking restoration. Amalgams have saved a lot of teeth over the years as not everyone could afford the gold restoration options of the past. Modern dentistry has increasingly turned to tooth-colored or composite fillings or porcelain fillings as a strong and more natural looking alternative. Composite fillings utilize a soft white plastic substance that is hardened with a curing light.

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Porcelain Inlays/Onlays

Replacing large fillings in back teeth often requires stronger, more precisely contoured restorations. These are called inlays or onlays depending on whether they are being placed inside the tooth or on its outer surface. These restorations traditionally need to be custom-made at an off-site dental lab, requiring two visits. Once the dental office receives the custom inlay or onlay, the patient returns to the dentist's office, where the restorations are bonded into place.

 

Onlays protect teeth similarly to crowns, but conserve more natural tooth structure. Onlays should provide decades of service. Doctor Lansdowne has restored beauty and function to the teeth of many patients through the placement of custom-crafted inlays and onlays.

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Tooth Whitening

As we age, our teeth lose the brilliant whiteness that implies good dental health and youth. The unsightly stains associated with tobacco, dark liquids, and other factors can leave us feeling less-than-confident about our smiles. Fortunately, there is a simple solution to this dental problem: cosmetic tooth whitening. Our practice provides convenient, take-home tooth-whitening programs and in-office tooth whitening for our patients.




Take-home Tooth Whitening

These kits contain either a customized tray that is made from custom molds of your teeth and whitening gel made of hydrogen peroxide, or newer kits use a system that lessens the cost by providing a delivery system not requiring custom trays. Both systems have their pros and cons. The patient usually wears the trays and gel for approximately thirty minutes two times per day until their teeth have reached the desired shade.

FAQ’s

Is whitening safe?

Yes. Extensive research and clinical studies indicate that whitening teeth under the supervision of a dentist is safe. It is not recommended to children under the age of 13 years of age and pregnant or lactating women.

How long do the results last?

To keep your teeth looking their best, we recommend flossing, brushing twice daily along with regular professional cleaning. Occasional touch ups with the specially designed touch up kits help keep your teeth their brightest. These touch up kits can be provided as an ongoing periodic therapy at our office. It should be noted that tooth whitening treatments have no effect on the artificial materials used for bonds, veneers, or capped teeth.



Are there any side effects?

Sensitivity during the treatment may occur with some patients. There are additional techniques that can minimize any sensitivity that may occur.

Take your first step to feeling good, looking great and making a memorable impression every time you smile. You owe it to yourself!
Call our office today to schedule your bleaching appointment!
(A cleaning is recommended prior to the whitening session)

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All-Porcelain Crowns

If you ever had the notion that dental crowns are conspicuous and unattractive, then you've never noticed a beautifully crafted all-porcelain crown.

Compared to porcelain fused to metal crowns, all-porcelain crowns have a more natural appearance. When expertly done, crowns should be extremely difficult to distinguish from natural teeth. With all-porcelain crowns, no dark lines are apparent at the gum line. Crown margins can become visable above the gum line if the soft tissue receeds from gum disease, so practicing good oral hygiene is essential.

Our office commonly replaces unsightly crowns with beautiful new porcelain crowns.

There are different kinds of All Porcelain Crowns. Together, we will decide which is right for you depending on your dental conditions, your desires and needs.

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