IMPLANTS (REPLACING TEETH)
In severe cases of tooth decay, or due
to injury or age, one tooth or several
teeth may require replacement. Implant
technology has improved over the years
and now false teeth can match the rest
of your smile for a natural, blended
look.
TEETH WHITENING
There are a number of reasons why
teeth become discolored over time,
from internal causes to external factors.
So, it just makes sense that there are a
variety of ways to handle whitening,
from simple do-it-yourself products to
more extensive in-office treatments.
While a prescription is not needed for
the over-the-counter home remedies, it
is a good idea to discuss them with your
dentist. In-office remedies are typically
more effective and better for people
with sensitivity issues because the rest
of the mouth can be protected.
CROOKED TEETH
While most people instantly picture
teens in b races when they think of
straightening crooked teeth, there are
options for adults that are much more
subtle than the full-metal braces of
the past. Short-term orthodontics can
include invisible braces that are placed
behind the teeth and which can be a
faster alternative to traditional braces;
clear aligner therapy, such as Invisalign,
a well-known “nearly invisible”
treatment that uses trays to gradually
create change; and more. With strict
compliance, these solutions can create
straighter teeth.
GAPS
CROWNS & BRIDGES
Bridges fill space from large gaps and
missing teeth and are not exclusively
cosmetic. Involving a more affordable,
less invasive procedure than with
implants and orthodontics, they help
to improve the appearance of teeth
without replacing or straightening.
Similarly, crowns help to cap and repair
chipped or cracked teeth, restoring
them to their normal shape. Porcelain
crowns can be completed in one visit
and sometimes assist in large fillings.
Some gaps between teeth can be
fixed with the traditional metal braces
or other short-term options mentioned
above. But there are other methods
of fixing gaps that can work almost
instantly to give you a smile that you’ll
want to share. Bonding fills in the space
by using a resin, and dental veneers use
ceramic or porcelain to subtly widen
the teeth to diminish the gap. If your
gap is due to missing teeth or dental
implants, a bridge or partial dentures
can restore the healthy appearance you
once had.
Talk to your dentist to find out which
treatment(s) are best suited to tackling
your smile inhibitors. ■
South Fayette | Winter 2017 | icmags.com 51