Which Cosmetic Procedure Is Right for Me?

Would you like to improve your smile but aren't sure which cosmetic dentistry procedure will help you achieve your goals? Our River cosmetic dentistryForest, IL, dentists, Dr. Gina Piccioni and Dr. John Hartmann of River Forest Dental Studio, discuss several procedures that can transform your smile.

Cosmetic bonding

Bonding allows your dentist to change the shape or length of your teeth or hide imperfections by applying flexible composite resin, which is then hardened with a curing light. In addition to lengthening teeth, cosmetic bonding can also make crooked or twisted teeth look straight, hide discolorations, close gaps, and conceal chips, cracks, and other imperfections.

Teeth whitening

A dull smile can detract from your appearance and also make you look older. Fortunately, it only takes about an hour to whiten your smile with professional whitening treatment. Whitening generally lightens teeth by about three to eight shades. Results usually last several years and can be easily maintained with at-home whitening kits offered by our River Forest office.

Veneers

Veneers provide an alternative to teeth whitening treatment. Because they're available in many shades of white, you can choose just how white you want your smile to be. The tooth-shaped porcelain shells are applied to the fronts of your teeth. Veneers are also used to hide small flaws, such as chips and cracks, and can change the shape and length of teeth and fill gaps. The restorations are highly resistant to stains and can be maintained simply by brushing and flossing your teeth.

Tooth-colored fillings

There's no hiding your dental history when you have silver amalgam fillings. Your dental work is on view every time you open your mouth. Tooth-colored fillings blend in with your teeth and actually help strengthen them. The fillings are made of composite resin tinted to match the color of your teeth.

Dental implants

Missing teeth can be permanently restored with dental implants. Implants may not look like your natural roots but they accomplish the same function. The titanium posts are implanted in your jawbone, where they begin to bond to the bone. Once they're firmly attached to the bone, they're topped with a crown, an artificial tooth that you'll use to bite and chew foods. Dental implants feel very much like real teeth, help keep your jawbone strong, and will probably never need to be replaced if you practice good oral hygiene.

Cosmetic dentistry procedures can help you look your best. Call our River Forest, IL, dentists, Dr. Piccioni and Dr. Hartmann of River Forest Dental Studio, at (708) 366-6760 to schedule an appointment to discuss your treatment options.