JAMES H. DOUNDOULAKIS,
D.M.D., M.S.

Cosmetic Dental Rehabilitation

53 East 66th Street
New York, NY 10021
(212) 517 - 3365

THE ART OF COSMETIC DENTISTRY (continued)

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. (see FAQ's)

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 the 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 .

In short-

• The most advanced tooth whitening system available
• In office treatment- we do the work
• Quickest, most effective treatment to date
• Generally free of tooth sensitivity

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).

"Click" image  to enlarge

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.

Call our office for an appointment to discuss which of these state-of- the-art options may be the best for you. Ask to see our Cosmetic Album, which will clearly show you what cosmetic dentistry can do for you!