Are you interested in cosmetic dental care but have questions about your treatment options? Our Cockeysville dental practice offers high-quality, comprehensive cosmetic dental care in Cockeysville, MD. We work with patients plan their treatment and find the right solutions to their cosmetic problems. If you’re looking to brighten up your smile with some whitening or need to straighten out those crooked teeth with Invisalign, we’re here to help.
FAQs: Cosmetic Dental Care
Read answers to popular questions about cosmetic dentistry.
What is digital smile design?
A digital smile design is a unique dental tool that allows us to create a mockup of the smile using 3D imaging. We use this design to plan treatment accurately. Patients also get to “try on” their smile and are a part of the treatment process every step of the way.
We typically use a digital smile design for patients who undergo a smile makeover. Smile makeovers can address problems like dental injuries, discoloration, crooked teeth, and even tooth loss.
When will I see results from my teeth whitening treatment?
Patients will see near immediate results with our in-office Venus White Max treatment. It may take several weeks for patients to see results from their take-home treatment. Each patient reacts differently to whitening treatment and has different levels of discoloration. We work with patients to ensure they meet their cosmetic dental goals with their whitening treatment.
Do I need to wear Invisalign at night?
Yes, patients will need to wear Invisalign aligners during sleep. For the best results, patients must wear their aligners for 22 hours daily. Patients can remove their aligners to eat, brush, and floss. Wearing Invisalign for the correct amount of time will make it easier for us to plan treatment and give patients an idea of their total treatment length.
How long do dental veneers last?
Traditional porcelain dental veneers can last from fifteen to twenty years. Patients must be committed to veneers because we must prepare their teeth for treatment. Preparing teeth removes part of the tooth enamel to ensure the veneers look and feel real.
We can replace veneers after many years, but patients will not be able to show their teeth without a cosmetic dental option like veneers. Flossing and brushing gently with a soft-bristled toothbrush will also extend the life of dental veneers. Patients need to clean their veneers like real teeth to prevent staining and bacteria build up.
What’s the difference between professional teeth whitening and store-bought whitening kits?
Our professional whitening treatments use special, stronger whitening gels that are safely applied by our dental team. These can make your teeth dramatically whiter. Patients often get 8-10 shades brighter in just one visit. We carefully protect your gums and enamel during the process.
While drugstore whitening kits might help a little, they use much weaker formulas that can’t remove tough stains. We also offer professional take-home kits that work better than store-bought options while being gentle on your teeth.
Can you fix gaps between teeth?
Yes! We have several great ways to close gaps between teeth. For small spaces, we can use tooth-colored filling material (called bonding) for a quick and affordable fix. Porcelain veneers are another option that can reshape multiple teeth at once for a perfectly even smile.
If you have bigger gaps or bite problems, we might recommend Invisalign aligners to gently move your teeth into the right position first. During your visit, we’ll look at your specific needs and recommend the best for your goals and budget.
Will cosmetic treatments hurt my teeth?
Most cosmetic treatments can actually protect your teeth. Whitening doesn’t change your tooth structure at all. Invisalign simply guides your teeth into better positions. Veneers do require removing a tiny bit of enamel, but we’re very careful to preserve as much tooth as possible.
In many cases, cosmetic work can actually help protect your teeth from future damage. We’ll always recommend the most conservative approach that still gives you great results.
Does cosmetic dentistry hurt?
You might be surprised how comfortable today’s cosmetic dentistry is. Teeth whitening might make your teeth slightly sensitive for a short time, but we have special treatments to minimize this. Invisalign feels more like tight pressure than actual pain.
Getting veneers is similar to having a routine filling. We’ll numb the area so you won’t feel anything during the procedure. If you’re nervous, we also offer relaxation options to help you feel at ease. Any minor discomfort after treatment usually goes away in a few days.
Can I get cosmetic work If I have dental problems?
We always make sure your mouth is healthy before doing any cosmetic work. If you have gum disease or cavities, we’ll treat those first because they could affect your results. The good news is that after we take care of any dental health issues, you’ll be ready for cosmetic improvements.
Many patients find that wanting a beautiful smile actually helps them take better care of their teeth going forward. We’ll create a step-by-step plan that puts your health first while still helping you achieve the smile you want.
How do I maintain my cosmetic dental work?
Maintenance varies by treatment but generally includes:
- For veneers/bonding: Avoid chewing hard objects (ice, pens), wear a night guard if you grind teeth, and use non-abrasive toothpaste
- For whitening: Limit stain-causing foods/drinks and consider touch-up treatments every 6-12 months
- For Invisalign: Wear retainers as directed to prevent teeth from shifting back
All cosmetic work benefits from excellent oral hygiene. We provide personalized care instructions and recommend follow-up visits to ensure your investment lasts as long as possible.
Do you want to make over your smile with cosmetic dental care? Call Valley Dental Health for 443-733-6613. You can also request a dental appointment with us on our website. Please let us know if you have questions for us.