Invisalign Orthodontics
Invisalign straightens your teeth with a series of clear, virtually invisible custom-molded aligners. Using a series of clear, removable aligners, Invisalign straightens your teeth with results that you’ll notice sooner than you think. The course of treatment involves changing aligners approximately every two weeks, moving your teeth into a straighter position, until you have a more beautiful smile. And unlike braces, these clear aligners can be removed while you eat and brush your teeth as usual.
Veneers
Veneers are a dental procedure in which a covering is placed over the tooth’s outside (visible area). Veneers are usually only used on the part of the teeth that are visible when talking or smiling. The procedure can be direct or indirect.
The direct technique usually involves placing composite resin on the outside of the tooth using bonding.
The indirect technique usually involves two appointments because the veneers are made at a dental laboratory. At the first appointment, the teeth are prepared, impressions taken, and the teeth are given a temporary covering. In two to three weeks, the veneers are back from the laboratory, the temporaries are removed, and the veneers are bonded to the teeth. The laboratory fabricated veneers are usually made using porcelain or pressed ceramic, and are very aesthetic.
The advantage of veneers versus crowns is that much less tooth material is removed. Veneers are not recommended for teeth that have large fillings or have little tooth structure remaining.
Whitening
Whitening is the procedure of making teeth whiter, and therefore more attractive. We use several methods:
- In-office, professional-strength whitening with 38% hydrogen peroxide for “instant” results
- Prescription-strength, passive tray whitening at home
- Over the counter-strength whitening strips at home