Cosmetic Dentistry
No matter what services you require for your cosmetic dentistry needs, you will be well informed and cared for at Stroudsburg Family Dental. At your consultation, Dr. Iglio will review your specific problems and your treatment options. Where applicable, we will show you a model of the anticipated aesthetic and functional result. Our approach is to treat each patient with the care and respect they deserve while providing education about recommended procedures.
Q: WHAT IS COSMETIC DENTISTRY?
Cosmetic dentistry is dental treatment that improves the beauty and health of one’s smile. Nearly every dental procedure has 2 elements: aesthetics and function. Quality cosmetic dentistry takes both of these elements into consideration. Rest assured you will not only look great, you will enjoy hassle free long-term results.
Q: WILL MY DENTAL INSURANCE COVER COSMETIC DENTAL TREATMENT?
Like plastic surgery, insurance does not usually cover treatment done for purely cosmetic reasons. However, treatment that is needed to repair broken or decayed teeth or to replace existing defective restorations may qualify for some insurance reimbursement.
Q: WHAT ARE SOME EXAMPLES OF COSMETIC DENTISTRY PROCEDURES?
Cosmetic dentistry covers a multitude of procedures from teeth whitening to repairing, straightening, replacing or enhancing the appearance of one’s teeth and smile. Most common is the use of Cosmetic Veneers or Laminates. These thin but durable restorations are much more conservative to the natural tooth than traditional crowns, and have become a very popular way to enhance a smile. In certain procedures dental bonding can be a way to shape teeth as well.
Q: WHY WOULD SOMEONE NEED OR BE INTERESTED IN COSMETIC DENTISTRY?
Cosmetic dentistry provides more than just a beautiful smile and a healthy mouth. According to the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry (AACD), cosmetic dentistry has also been shown to improve a person’s overall health and emotional well-being. An improved smile can boost a person’s self-image, making them more confident in their daily lives.
Q: HOW HAS TECHNOLOGY IMPROVED IN COSMETIC DENTISTRY?
Cosmetic dental techniques have advanced dramatically over the last decade. The qualities of materials such as porcelain and composite resins have improved, giving a more lifelike appearance. And, where gum-tissue surgery and contouring was once performed with scalpels, lasers now provide fast, non-surgical results.
Q: IS THERE A STANDARD BEAUTIFUL SMILE FOR ALL PEOPLE?
No. Each person is different and each case is different, and has to be planned very carefully. There are many differences between male and female teeth - and between all people. The design of the teeth has to be in proportion with the gum line, the lips, and the construction of the face of each individual to achieve a beautiful and natural smile.
Q: HOW WHITE SHOULD I GET MY TEETH?
In adolescence we generally have a white, bright smile but over the years our teeth pick up stain and become discolored. When undergoing cosmetic dental procedures the question then is how pearly white do we want to make your teeth? Many people are choosing shades that are whiter than in years past. Brilliantly white, opaque teeth on older individuals are a telltale sign they have undergone some type of cosmetic dentistry. Stroudsburg Family Dental strives to give your smile a sense of realism - you will attain a beautiful natural white aesthetic outcome.
Q: HOW LONG DO COSMETIC DENTAL PROCEDURES TAKE AT STROUDSBURG FAMILY DENTAL?
In most cases, bonding can be completed in one visit. Accelerated whitening can be completed in one visit. At-home whitening requires an initial visit to be fitted for the splint. You need to return in a few days to pick-up your splint and we make sure it is fitted properly. Then depending on how often you wear the splint, you should see results from the first wearing to a few weeks or more. Porcelain veneers require two visits, about 10 days apart for fitting and application. Since each person’s cosmetic dental needs are unique, the above time guidelines are only an estimate. When Dr. Iglio develops your customized treatment plan, she can give you a more precise schedule based on your cosmetic dental needs.
Q: HOW LONG WILL COSMETIC DENTAL TREATMENT LAST?
There are too many factors to accurately predict how long any cosmetic dental treatment will last. The longevity of cosmetic treatment varies from procedure to procedure and person to person. The condition of the teeth prior to treatment influences the longevity of the restorations. Home care (hygiene) and eating habits are part of the equation. Of course, the quality of the treatment itself influences the long-term outcome as well. We do our best to deliver high-quality treatment that will last many years. Regular visits Dr. Iglio can help insure that your dental treatment is being maintained. While there is nothing we can do to render a tooth completely immune to future problems, preventive maintenance will prolong the life of your cosmetic dental treatment for many years.
Q: DOES STROUDSBURG FAMILY DENTAL PERFORM COSMETIC DENTISTRY ON CHILDREN OR TEENAGERS?
There are many reasons why children and adolescents may want a better looking or prettier smile, such as for better socialization, enhanced self-esteem and greater confidence. Depending on your child’s age and where he or she is in the development of his or her teeth and dental arches, some cosmetic dental procedures may be suitable if there is a specific problem that needs correcting. For example, some children and adolescents may have severely discolored teeth as a result of taking certain medications. Or, the front teeth may have been fractured due to an accident or sports injury and require composite bonding or veneers. In other instances, there still may be slight gaps or spaces between the teeth even after orthodontics, so perhaps composite bonding would enhance the look of the smile. If your child or teenager is concerned about the appearance of his or her smile, make an appointment with Dr. Iglio. She will suggest the most appropriate course of action based on your child’s age, oral condition and desires.