|
Q |
What
is Cosmetic Dentistry? |
|
A |
Also
known as "esthetic dentistry,"
cosmetic dentistry is a branch of dentistry
that implements many different procedures
to improve the beauty of your smile. |
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|
Q |
Can
existing porcelain crowns or laminates be
bleached? |
| A |
No,
porcelain does not change color when exposed
to dental bleach. |
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top] |
|
Q |
How
long should bonding last? |
| A |
Bonding
lasts 3-5 years, depending on wear and tear. |
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|
Q |
How
long do porcelain laminates last? |
| A |
When
properly maintained, porcelain laminates
can last in excess of 10 years (10 years
is the approximate average).
|
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|
Q |
Why
do people choose porcelain laminates over
bonding? |
| A |
Laminates
look more realistic than bonding, and they
do not stain. They also feel more natural,
are more durable, and are stronger than
bonding composites. |
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|
Q |
Can
porcelain laminates or crowns give me lip
support? |
| A |
If
porcelain laminates are built out with bulk,
they can deliver lip support, provided it
does not interfere with function and local
biology. |
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|
Q |
How
do you get rid of spaces between teeth? |
| A |
You
can get rid of spaces between the teeth
with porcelain laminates or bonding. Crowns
may be used to fix more severe gaps between
teeth. |
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|
Q |
Does
it hurt to have teeth prepared for laminates? |
| A |
No.
Preparing teeth for laminates is a painless,
two-visit procedure. Local anesthesia can
be given to highly sensitive patients, but
is usually not necessary. |
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|
Q |
What
are the advantages of laminates versus orthodontic
treatment? |
| A |
Orthodontic
treatment takes 18 months to 2 years and
often requires braces, while porcelain laminates
correct crooked teeth in just two visits. |
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top] |
|
Q |
Are
cosmetic procedures covered by insurance? |
| A |
Dental
insurance usually does not cover cosmetic
dental procedures. |
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