Cosmetic Dentistry
Dental veneers
Direct composite and porcelain veneers are a similar process in that they both offer the option to cover, reshape and resize the parts of our anterior teeth that we see visually. They are used mostly for cosmetic improvement in the look of teeth to correct the shape, size, colour and minor corrections in placement of teeth. They can also be used to repair fractured anterior teeth and cover defects in anterior teeth. Check out our smile gallery. These are one of our favourite treatments to do as they can create such a dramatic improvement in a person’s smile.
On the initial consultation visit your dentist will ask some questions to get an understanding of what it is about your smile or with a particular tooth that you do not like and would like improved. We will discuss the options we have to correct this and if bonding or veneers are determined to be the treatment of choice impressions are taken. From the impressions diagnostic wax ups are constructed which creates a replica on a model of what changes we expect to achieve with your direct composite or porcelain veneer process. This allows us to show our goal to the patient and allows the patient a chance to see visually the result we hope to achieve at the end of their treatment.
Once we are happy with the planned treatment we will prepare the teeth for direct composite or porcelain veneer placement. With direct composite the teeth are prepared and the composite material is then placed directly in the same visit while with porcelain veneers the teeth are prepared and temporised. Impressions are then taken and the porcelain veneers placed at a separate appointment.
While both techniques can create a fantastic outcome in most instances porcelain is the preferred treatment option as porcelain veneers offer superior aesthetics, are more colours stable and have greater strength. It does take one additional appointment and is more expensive than direct composite veneers.
Teeth whitening
Whitening is an option for patients who would like to lighten their teeth and improve the appearance of their smile. Whitening works by breaking down stains on our teeth to make the teeth appear cleaner, healthier, brighter, younger and more vibrant.
At Bella Vista Family Dental Centre we offer both in office and take home whitening procedures. The in office procedure is a quick process that generally takes around one hour to achieve. We place a barrier to protect the gums. This allows us to place a special more concentrated whitening gel on your teeth. Generally 3 – 4 applications of the gel are used in a single visit. As we can get an almost instant result in office whitening is popular prior to important events such as weddings and birthdays.
The take home kits are a great solution that is simple to use and results can be seen in around 10 days. For the take home kits impressions are taken so that custom mouth trays can be constructed. The custom trays allow for the delivery of high quality professional whitening gels over the teeth and just the teeth. They also protect the gel from contact with saliva, which would significantly reduce the effectiveness of the whitening agents. The take home kits are very affordable and offer great practicality. Patients have control on how far they take the whitening of their teeth and the trays allow for easy touch ups and maintenance of the whitening results simply by reapplication when and as the patient wishes.
A brief consultation is always recommended prior to whitening as the process may not be suitable for everyone. We also recommend a professional check-up and clean prior to commencing the whitening treatment for the best result.