Cosmetic Dentistry

If you have healthy teeth and gums but you're not satisfied with the way your smile looks, ask your dentist about veneers.

Veneers can help brighten front teeth that have permanent stains or discoloration that can't be whitened. They may be used to correct small gaps between the front teeth, or to fix poorly shaped or slightly crooked teeth. Your dentist may recommend veneers to cover teeth that are chipped, worn, or eroded at the gumline from aggressive brushing.

Veneers are thin, custom-made shells that the dentist affixes to the teeth in a simple, comfortable procedure that requires just a few appointments. Veneers are usually placed without the need for an anesthetic. They are made from composite resins, acrylic material, or porcelain. Your dentist will help you choose which material is best for you based on durability, stain resistance, and a natural look.

The Progress of Periodontal Disease

1. Healthy gingiva (gum tissue) and bone anchor teeth firmly in place.
   
   
2. Gingivitis develops as toxins in plaque irritate the gums, making them red, tender, swollen, and likely to bleed easily.
   
   
3. Periodontitis occurs when toxins destroy the tissues that anchor teeth in the bone. As gums detach from teeth, pockets form and fill with plaque. Tooth roots are exposed and become susceptible to decay and sensitive to cold and touch.
   
   
4. Advanced periodontitis is present when the teeth continue to lose their attachment and the supporting bone is destroyed. Unless treated, the affected teeth frequently become loose and may fall out or require removal by a dentist.