Cosmetic Dentistry

Traditional veneers and minimal-preparation Lumineers® can transform the appearance of the size, shape, and color of your teeth in one simple procedure. A porcelain veneer is a custom-made shell placed on the front surface of a tooth to conceal cosmetic imperfections. Lumineers are an even thinner type of dental veneer that can be placed without removing any of the patient's natural tooth enamel.

Safely remove surface stains and discoloration with the Zoom!® Whitening system. During the procedure, we apply professional-strength bleaching gel to the tooth enamel and activate the whitening agent with ultraviolet light. Patients looking for fast results can undergo the in-office treatment and whiten their teeth by several shades in under an hour. If convenience is your primary concern, we can also provide gel and custom-made trays for take-home teeth whitening. We often recommend combining both options to reach the exact shade you want and touching up your results at home as needed.

Dental bonding is used to repair minor chips, cracks, misalignment, or discoloration without permanently altering your teeth. The procedure consists of tooth-colored composite resin applied directly to the enamel and cured in place. After choosing the perfect shade for your enamel, our dentist layers the bonding material to conceal the targeted dental flaw. Once the bonding is cured, it is carefully reshaped to mimic the shape of your natural tooth. While more significant problems are better treated with veneers, bonding is a fast and affordable option to improve minor aesthetic imperfections.

The soft tissues of our mouths frame our teeth and set the stage for a beautiful smile. Teeth that appear short may indicate a disproportionate, or heavy gum line. Fortunately, gum contouring can improve the balance between your teeth and gums. During this treatment, our dentist will gently reshape and even out the soft tissue of the gum line to achieve a straighter, more proportional-looking smile. With local anesthetic and dental sedation, the procedure is virtually painless and is complete in just one office visit. 

Invisalign® is a comfortable and discreet orthodontic system designed to align your teeth and bite. Unlike conspicuous metal braces, Invisalign involves a series of clear plastic alignment trays. These removable mouthpieces gently pressure the teeth causing them to gradually shift into proper alignment. Wear each tray for two weeks (removing to enjoy meals and smile for pictures) and move on to the next in the series. When worn properly, Invisalign takes between 12 to 18 months on average. 

Traditional orthodontics is still one of the most effective options for treating moderate to severe dental misalignment. Brackets connected by a metal archwire exert pressure on the teeth, strategically reposition their alignment. Patients who struggle with high canines, overcrowding, and poor bite alignment may be good candidates for FASTBRACES®. This option involves triangular-shaped brackets that increase the flexibility of the archwire and expedite the results of treatment. You and the dentist can discuss your options and determine whether braces are right for you.

In cases of dental overcrowding, decay, or structural damage, our dentists may recommend extractions. While we always attempt more conservative strategies to save the tooth first, extractions can be the best way to improve your oral health and the appearance of your smile. Once we correct the problem, you can choose from a number of restorative options to replace missing teeth including state-of-the-art dental implants and snap-on dentures. Implants support a custom-made restoration with maximum stability, filling the gap in your smile with the next best thing to a natural tooth. 

Sometimes it can be difficult to get the results you want with a single procedure. If you are looking for more comprehensive enhancement, consider a smile makeover. A smile makeover combines several techniques found in cosmetic and restorative dentistry into one streamlined treatment. Addressing multiple problems at one not only saves time but conserves resources and can reduce the overall total cost of treatment.  When you arrive at our Joppa, MD, practice for a consultation, we will go over your options and develop a custom plan according to your needs.