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Cosmetic Dentistry
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 Cosmetic dentistry will give you healthy, radiant teeth. It is one of the most cost-effective ways to improve confidence and make you want to share your smile.
With state-of-the-art materials, and tried and true dental techniques, cosmetic dentistry improves appearance and enhances self-esteem. Composite fillings have replaced traditional silver-colored amalgams, while porcelain is the preferred choice in the creation of bridges. Other techniques like teeth whitening and veneers can improve the color and shape of your natural smile.
Teeth Whitening
Teeth whitening, as the name implies, is a process for making your smile brighter and more attractive. The many methods of teeth whitening vary widely in application time, efficacy, cost and probability of tooth sensitivity.
Cosmetic Bonding
Cosmetic bonding rebuilds chips and fills in gaps with a resin that can be colored to blend with the surrounding teeth. The bonding adheres directly to the surface of the tooth, and is hardened in place with bright ultraviolet light. Cosmetic bonding is an attractive option because it is cost effective, looks natural and improves tooth shape.
Cosmetic bonding may require replacement due to wear and gradual discoloration over time. For this reason, some patients prefer more permanent solutions such as dental crowns, bridges and porcelain veneers. All these options should be discussed with your dentist.
Crowns
 Dentists use crowns for restoring severely decayed or fractured teeth. First, Dr. Ellis will remove the damaged portion of the tooth, and shape it to fit your crown. Then, a unique mold is taken and used to manufacture a crown out of gold or porcelain to fit the healthy tooth. The crown is then fixed into place with special cement or bonding material. Dental crowns provide the following benefits:
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They restore the tooth's original shape and size
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They help prevent decay from forming on the underlying tooth
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They add strength to the tooth's structure
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They are very durable |
Dental crowns help prevent the need for root canals and tooth extraction by reducing the risk of tooth fracture and tooth decay.
Bridges
Dental bridges serve to replace one or more missing teeth. First, the dentist prepares the teeth on either side of the missing tooth to receive crowns. Then, an artificial tooth is attached between the two crowns. Once the crown-artificial tooth-crown combination is cemented into place, it 'bridges' the gap left by the missing tooth. Bridges offer several benefits:
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They look like new teeth
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They are a durable mouth fixture
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They prevent surrounding teeth from shifting to fill the gap
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They restore a more natural bite and chewing ability |
For these reasons, bridges are a good investment compared to dentures. If a bridge is not possible, or the adjacent teeth don't need crowns, dental implants may be the best alternative.
Porcelain Veneers
Dental veneers are custom crafted porcelain laminates fitted by a dentist over the front of an existing tooth. They bond directly to the front of the tooth, dramatically enhancing its shape, color and appearance. Porcelain veneers are virtually undetectable, very durable and an effective way to improve smile appearance. |
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Ridgeline Dental
Esthetic Family Dental Care
366 E. 40th Avenue
Suite #210
Eugene, OR 97405
CALL TODAY
(541) 484-6974
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