Hello, Ladies and gentlemen. My name is Dr. Ellen and I’m managing dentist in Henderson & Las Vegas for WIGWAM DENTAL CARE and LAKE MEAD DENTAL.
I've been practicing dentistry since 1995. Even though, I started my career with all aspects of general Dentistry. Over the years I found my passion in Aesthetic Dentistry. The 21st century is a “boom” for health and aesthetics. Today I’ll try to give you some answers to most common questions that are asked by my patients.
What is the difference between different whitening products?
The most common procedure in aesthetic dentistry is Teeth Whitening. Over the years the market got oversaturated with different whitening products. Home kit whitening is provided by the dentist. Custom made trays will be fabricated to hold the whitening gel on the teeth. The most important part about the home kit whitening is to use it as instructed every single day without interruption. In-Office whitening is usually done by a dental professional in the office. this procedure usually takes 2 - 2 ½ hours. At the end of the procedure, the results will be very similar to In-Home whitening. Every single whitening procedure gives tooth sensitivity. This is usually related to the dehydration of teeth. This dehydration and sensitivity is temporary. Dentists can help get rid of that sensitivity much quicker by using concentrated fluoride treatment after whitening is completed. The type of the whitening must be chosen individually so whether the choice is to use over-the-counter products or products that are given by the dentist, make an appointment for a consultation first. Dentist can explain everything to help make a better choice. Please remember that whitening only works on the natural teeth. Crowns, veneers, filling, and any type of artificial teeth will not change the color.
I don't want Braces! What other options do I have? More complicated aesthetic procedures include Braces, Veneers, Crowns. Veneers are a choice for patients who want to change the shape of their teeth, shade, change the length of teeth just a little bit or change the rotation of teeth when the braces are not an option or preference
What Are Porcelain Veneers?
Veneers come in two different types; porcelain veneers and composite veneers. Porcelain veneers are custom made of glass particles by the dental laboratory individually. This procedure involves a couple of appointments, preparation, impression, and the 2nd appointment is actual cementation.
What Are Composite Veneers?
Composite veneers are made by the dentist as a sculpture while patient is in the dental chair using plastic-like filling material.
In either procedure, the result can be amazing; however, due to the difference in the material glass vs. plastic the lifespan and their glossiness can be different. Not every patient is a candidate for both, so please make an appointment with dentist for consultation.
What Is Full Mouth Rehabilitation?
Full Mouth Rehabilitation does not mean that there is destruction of the teeth that requires a lot of work. Full mouth rehabilitation or reconstruction can also be applied to severe enamel wear resulting in extremely short teeth. In such a cases full mouth lengthening of the teeth is required.
Full mouth reconstruction usually takes between 6 to 8 months. And requires very careful and timely planning.
The number of products that are available in the market to improve health and aesthetic can be absolutely overwhelming. Let our professionals decide what is the proper treatment exclusively for you.
Consultations for such procedures are usually free if recent copy of X-Rays is provided.