If you have missing or damaged teeth, cosmetic dentistry restores your appearance to give you a bright, vibrant smile again. Short Pump Dental performs cosmetic dentistry in Henrico, VA, often in a single office visit. Your options range from single implants to full smile restoration.
What Is Cosmetic Dentistry?
Regular dentistry, such as tooth extraction, root canals and metal fillings, protects your teeth but may impact your smile's appearance. Cosmetic dentistry restores your smile so that the damage is virtually invisible.
Insurance doesn't always cover cosmetic dentistry because some procedures, such as veneers and teeth whitening, have few medical benefits. Talk to our office to review coverage before you start.
Types of Cosmetic Dentistry
Veneers
Veneers are thin porcelain coverings that our dentists attach directly to your teeth. Their clean white appearance hides cracks, stains, gaps and other issues.
We'll start with a consultation, then remove as little enamel as possible to make room for the veneers. Afterward, we'll create molds of your teeth and provide temporary veneers to wear while we craft the final versions. When we're done, we'll cement the permanent veneers to your teeth.
Since you're losing some enamel, your teeth are more susceptible to decay. However, veneers are safe if you stay on top of brushing, flossing and visiting Short Pump Dental for regular cleanings.
Bonding
Bonding is similar to veneers, but it's simpler and reversible. Your dentist applies tooth-colored resin, then sculpts the resin to a natural shape. This short procedure hides cracks, chips and discoloration without removing enamel. Bonding is completely safe and more affordable than some procedures.
Teeth Whitening
Most of the teeth whitening process takes place outside the office. We'll provide whitening gel and trays that you can wear overnight or for a few hours each day. In a few weeks, your teeth will look several shades brighter, eliminating some of the discoloration from stains, old age and tobacco use.
Teeth whitening is generally safe when you receive treatment from a cosmetic dentist in Short Pump. Store-bought kits may erode the enamel or irritate your gums, causing pain and tooth sensitivity.
Tooth-colored Fillings
Metal fillings tend to stand out. A cosmetic dentist in Short Pump can attach tooth-colored fillings that are indistinguishable from the rest of your teeth. This procedure is just as safe as getting metal fillings, but they may have a shorter lifespan.
Schedule a Consultation
Call Short Pump Dental to schedule your consultation. We'll examine your teeth and discuss your goals, then come up with the best solution for your smile. If you have several damaged or missing teeth, we might suggest veneers, dentures or implants. For smaller issues, we may recommend bonding, teeth whitening or tooth-colored fillings.