Composite Fillings
When it comes time to replace older amalgam (silver) fillings, tooth-colored composite fillings can be used to restore the teeth. Composite bonds to the tooth, reinforcing its structure. And the result is whiter and brighter!
Patient Photos Depicting:
Composite Fillings
Note: Patients depicted in photos have provided their consent to display their pictures online. Results may vary.
The term "bonding" has sometimes been used to refer to tooth-colored composite fillings used on the front teeth. (Though composite actually "bonds" to any tooth on which it is used.)
In each of the cases shown at left, a front tooth had been fractured. Composite restorations were completed using materials to match the shade of the respective teeth.
In each case, the completed composite filling blends seamlessly with the natural tooth stucture.
Patient Photos Depicting:
Composite Fillings
Note: Patients depicted in photos have provided their consent to display their pictures online. Results may vary.
Porcelain Veneers
This patient was bothered by the dark intrinsic staining and the rather rectangular shape of her teeth.
Porcelain veneers are thin porcelain facings that are bonded onto the front of the teeth. They are an excellent choice for addressing both of her concerns at once.
In order to place veneers, a thin layer needs to be shaved from the front surfaces and the ends of the teeth (in this case, the six front teeth.) Plastic temporary facings are worn for about two weeks while the porcelain veneers are being custom fabricated in the laboratory.
The completed porcelain veneers are shown bonded in place. They were made with a more rounded "softer" contour, and they readily mask the internal staining.
Patient Photos Depicting:
Porcelain Veneers
Note: Patients depicted in photos have provided their consent to display their pictures online. Results may vary.
Tooth Whitening
There are a number of factors which can contribute to darkening or yellowing of teeth. Coffee, tea, or smoking are common causes, but other natural or dietary factors are frequently involved.
Bleaching is most effective when the stains are external. The type of bleaching pictured in this case is less effective when the stains are internal. ("Dead" teeth or teeth that have had root canal treatments sometimes develop internal staining. Internal staining is also seen in some adults who were treated with tetracycline early in their childhood.) There are other options for brightening internally stained teeth
Patient Photos Depicting:
Tooth Whitening
Note: Patients depicted in photos have provided their consent to display their pictures online. Results may vary.