Cosmetic Dentistry
Dr. Hsu is a big advocate of cosmetic dentistry. This includes a variety of procedures aimed at improving the appearance of the patients’ teeth. These services include: invisalign, laminates/veneers, zoom whitening, crowns, bridges and the changing of silver fillings to composite fillings.
Invisalign:
Invisalign is FDA-approved and it is the “invisible” way to straighten your teeth without wearing conventional metal braces. Invisalign uses a series of clear, removable aligners to move your teeth. Because you remove your aligners before you eat and drink, there are no food restrictions or problems with flossing or brushing. This technology is also more convenient, since you are likely to spend less time in the doctor’s office getting adjustments. The best thing about these aligners are that they are virtually invisible!
Laminates/Veneers:
When considering Laminate Veneers, there are different procedures they can be used for. They are an option for improving the color and appearance of your teeth. This process involves applying pre-formed laminate "fronts" to discolored or misshapen teeth. They are also a solution for filling gaps between teeth, fixing the appearance of twisted teeth, broadening your smile and providing sculptural enhancement of your smile.
Cosmetic contouring of your teeth may best be achieved through a combination of laminates and bonding. A combination of these procedures also may help you if you have misaligned teeth or have been grinding your teeth.
Zoom:
If a you want your teeth whiter right now, Zoom! is your answer. The Zoom! In-Office Whitening System uses proprietary technology to whiten your teeth an average of eight shades in a little over an hour while you relax at our office. It’s ideal for anyone who wants immediate results.
Crowns and Bridges:
A dental crown is a tooth shaped “cap” that is placed over a tooth to restore its shape, size and appearance. When a crown is placed, it covers the entire tooth and lies just above the gum line. A crown may be necessary in order to protect a weak tooth from breaking or to hold together parts of an already broken tooth. Crowns can also be useful in situations where the patient has a large filling and there is not much tooth left.
A dental bridge is defined as a dental appliance that is permanently cemented onto adjacent teeth to replace one or more missing teeth. If you have one or more missing teeth, this is something you can strongly consider. Often times, crowns and bridges are placed together to cover broken or weak teeth, and replace missing teeth at the same time.
Silver to Composite Fillings:
At Long Island Dental Spa, we recommend replacing your silver fillings with white fillings. White fillings which can also be called composite fillings are made from tooth-colored materials that restore the natural appearance of a decayed or previously filled tooth. You may prefer white fillings because they are much more natural looking. When you smile or laugh, the white fillings will blend perfectly with your natural teeth, as compared to silver fillings which are visible. Also, less of the healthy tooth needs to be removed when placing the composite filling which is a positive benefit!