When looking at ways to improve our smile, many individuals are considering cosmetic dentistry. This is because cosmetic dentistry focuses on the aesthetic improvement of one’s smile. In our current social climate, cosmetic dentistry is more popular than ever. There are many reasons for this, including increased affordability and accessibility. If you are in the Ontario, CA, area and are looking for a cosmetic dentist, you should consider Dr. Mukesh Patel and the team at Ontario Dental Center. Many cosmetic dental procedures are simple, but others can require more complex skills and special care. Here are some of the more common procedures offered by Dr. Mukesh Patel.
Also called indirect fillings, inlays and onlays are used when teeth suffer from decay or when a substantial amount of tooth structure is missing so that a filling cannot be applied. Inlays and onlays are often made in a dental laboratory. However, Dr. Patel uses the latest CEREC technology and is able to do them in his dental office. As long as the tooth’s cusp has not been damaged, an inlay is put directly onto the surface of the tooth. Alternatively, if either the cusp has been damaged (or a large portion of the tooth), an onlay may be used. Onlays are used to shield the tooth’s full surface. Inlays and onlays are both manufactured by Dr. Patel with composite resin and are then adhered to the tooth using adhesive cement. Inlays and onlays provide strengthening of the tooth, help restore the tooth’s natural shape, and prevent further decay and deterioration.
For those who suffer from decayed, discolored, and otherwise damaged teeth, composite bonding is a great option currently available. Composite bonding is used to repair the tooth using a material that mimics the shade of natural tooth enamel. However, before the bonding can be applied, any decay will need to be drilled out by Dr. Patel. Once the decay is removed, the composite is then applied to the surface of the tooth and is sculpted into the correct form before being hardened using a special light. Bonding can conceal and protect the damage of the teeth while projecting an image that your tooth is perfectly healthy and untouched. Bonding is generally a very affordable procedure and popular with patients suffering from cracked or chipped teeth, tooth decay, or worn edges.
Dental veneers, usually made from porcelain that has been graded for medical use, are individually constructed for every patient to mimic the appearance of natural teeth. Manufactured as very thin layers, the veneer is applied to the front of the tooth and conceals many dental issues, including cracked or chipped teeth, discoloration, and large gaps. Porcelain veneers are manufactured to look very realistic. Once a thin layer of enamel is gently removed (just enough so that the veneer can be easily placed), the veneer is placed onto the surface of the tooth and held in place by adhesive.
While it is quite basic, it is also the most popular cosmetic dental procedure chosen by patients. Teeth whitening (or bleaching) is a straightforward procedure done at Dr. Patel’s office to brighten and restore your smile. Teeth should be thoroughly cleaned (preferably by a dental hygienist) before undergoing whitening to restore the tooth’s natural appearance. For those wanting an even whiter shade, some dentists offer more intense bleaching. Teeth whitening is exceedingly popular for a lot of reasons. Everybody faces the same issues over time. As we eat and drink, our teeth can (and most likely will) become stained or lose that natural white shade. Other individual habits, including smoking and tobacco use, will also cause a discoloration of the teeth. There is toothpaste on the shelf that can help whiten the teeth a little, but only a professional whitening treatment from a dentist can produce drastic results.
If you are interested in learning more about cosmetic dentistry and the options available to you in Ontario, CA, give Dr. Mukesh Patel a call today. The Ontario Dental Center’s awesome front staff can be reached by calling (909) 414-3535.
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