Think of the last time you posed for a photograph. Did you flash your "pearly whites" or did you hide your teeth? If the look of your teeth is keeping you from feeling your best, you will be glad to know there are simple solutions, utilizing cosmetic dentistry and dental implants. Today, many people benefit from cosmetic dentistry- a wide range of state-of-the-art techniques that can enhance almost any smile.

Thanks to improved state of the art technology and, materials, cosmetically-enhanced teeth look more natural and last longer than they did in the past. You don't have to settle for teeth that are chipped, stained, crooked or have spaces between them. Cosmetic dentists and implants dentists can skillfully blending science and art, our office can "sculpt" a more attractive, pleasing smile for you!

A smile is a powerful way for you to communicate. But if you feel self-conscience about your teeth, you may lose this power by covering your mouth when you smile or not smiling at all. Even a slight flaw in ONE of your teeth can detract from an otherwise attractive smile.
You can enjoy the many benefits of cosmetic dentistry, the "art form" devoted to the enhancement of smiles.

We will evaluate the health, and appearance of your teeth and gums, and recommend the best treatment for you. If you have a dull smile with stains, crooked teeth, red gums, gaps, rough shaped or chipped teeth and uneven length, Dr. Doundoulakis, a leading cosmetic dentist, can utilize these alternatives will give you something to smile about!

Tooth bleaching (or tooth whitening)- This technique can brighten/ lighten teeth utilizing a combined in-office/ home technique using a peroxide - based product. Depending on the patient's body chemistry and saliva, tooth bleaching can be effective 85% of the time and brighten teeth 2 to 6 shades lighter, depending on whether the patient smokes or drinks considerable coffee/tea/cola/red wine etc. For home tooth whitening, a mild whitening gel is retained in a custom-fitted appliance that slips over your teeth. The teeth whitening effect may wear off over time and " booster" bleaching can be done, as needed, if color starts to revert to the original shade.

A word on " Power" Tooth Whitening

“POWER BLEACHING” or power tooth whitening (similar to Brite Smile teeth whitening) is the latest and most advanced process available. This method uses the highest concentration of hydrogen peroxide available and is used to treat individuals who want immediate results (without the hassles of home bleaching) or those who have severe discolorations. In some cases, resistant tooth discoloration can only be corrected using a combination of In-Office and At-Home bleaching techniques, to effectively whiten teeth.

Patients usually see a dramatic shade improvement in less than 45 minutes and generally without the tooth sensitivity that is sometimes associated with the at-home tooth bleaching. The quick, comfortable and effective method is also the safest, because of new advanced light system that is used. The plasma arc light gives us the best whitening results without the dangers of a laser - and a more effective technique than Brite Smile .

Cosmetic Recontouring - We can level the teeth or reshape slightly- rotate teeth to achieve a more harmonious look. This is the quickest and most affordable service available, often used in conjunction with teeth bleaching.

Bonding - Used for all anterior tooth fillings, but rarely used for full coverage or veneering of teeth today due to material limitations. Bonded areas are prone to chipping, cracking, staining, discoloration, and wear. A bonded restoration may last 4 to 6 years before needing to be touched up or redone. Porcelain Laminates (veneers, facings)- The state of the art cosmetic restoration for anterior teeth that are structurally sound and without any large fillings. Porcelain laminates are a thin, custom-made covering that conceals the front and side surfaces of your tooth. They are made if a very durable ceramic material that actually strengthens your tooth! Porcelain laminates are versatile. They can correct stains, breaks and odd shapes, as well as lengthen individual teeth or close spaces.

In our office, the two step procedure can take 48-72 hours to be completed (versus 1-2 weeks in other dental offices!). Porcelain Laminates may have to be sent back to the laboratory for final alterations in shade, coloring, and characterization to achieve the desired final esthetic results. A major benefit of porcelain veneers is tooth conservation- relatively little enamel is removed in the preparation for the restoration.

Porcelain Inlays- Large, unsightly silver fillings can often be replaced by tooth- colored bonded porcelain, if sufficient tooth structure remains. These restorations also strengthen teeth. Porcelain inlays may be used in most posterior teeth (due to their inherent strength and wear resistance).

Porcelain Crowns- Because porcelain crowns cover your entire tooth, they often provide good solutions for severe problems- a bad fracture, a large filling, a tooth that has had root canal treatment, and in situations where one or several teeth are missing. When teeth can not be saved, dental implants are a great option to replace missing teeth.

As with other techniques, crowns can correct a wide range of problems. They are durable and strong, so replacements are needed less often. The difference between crowns and laminates (or porcelain inlays) is that more tooth structure is removed. This is required to allow adequate space for the restorative material to have appropriate strength, esthetics…and healthy gum contour.