Have you ever seen those pictures of people with absolutely perfect smiles, and you wonder how they got their teeth so white? Cosmetic veneers are a very common cosmetic dental procedure that can be applied in just one appointment, depending on your needs. Having this procedure done, though, isn’t right for everyone so you probably have a few questions you’d like answered before deciding if this is something you’d like to proceed with. Before booking an appointment with your Thornhill dentist, here’s what you need to know about having cosmetic veneers.

What are cosmetic veneers made of?

When it comes to having veneers applied, you have two options. The first is known as bonded veneers and the other is porcelain veneers. Bonded veneers are used for more superficial reasons, like just to whiten or brighten a smile. Porcelain veneers are used to fix cracks or major chips in your teeth as they are much more durable and will last longer than bonded ones.

How long will cosmetic veneers last?

The answer to this question isn’t standard, and depends a lot on the person who has the veneers applied. In some cases, where the veneers are well cared for and the patient goes in for regular dental check ups, the veneers can last for up to 15 years. Bonded veneers are not as durable as porcelain veneers, so if you’re looking for really long last veneers, porcelain ones are always going to be the way to go. Bonded veneers can also stain over time, and you may notice you can see where the veneer meets your natural tooth.

Veneers are a lot like natural teeth, so caring for them is exactly as you’d take care of your other teeth. With regular brushing, twice daily, and flossing you can make sure your veneers last for years and always look their best.

How are cosmetic veneers applied?

If you have selected porcelain veneers, you will need to visit the dentist twice. The first time, your dentist will remove a small layer or enamel from your teeth in preparation for applying the veneer. Your dentist will also create a mold for the veneers to be made, and will then apply a temporary veneer made to last until your next appointment. During the delivery appointment, the dentist will have the permanent veneers that were made from the molds of your teeth. The temporary ones will be removed and the permanent ones applied. Then the dentist will have you perform a bite test to see where the pressure of a bite is being applied, and make sure the veneers aren’t at risk for breaking. Your dentist will make adjustments, as needed, before permanently applying them.

Having cosmetic veneers can brighten your smile and make you feel so much more confident, but that doesn’t mean it’s the right procedure for everyone. Your Thornhill dentist can show you exactly how veneers would be applied to your teeth, and what your new smile could look like. If you think veneers might be an option for you, book a consultation appointment today.

Are you happy with your smile? Are there some improvements you would like to make? When natural teeth can be kept and repaired, they should be, however, dental implants are a good choice when there is significant damage or decay.

When thinking about dental implants, you should ask yourself, and your dentist, a few questions. Do I have missing teeth, even just one?  Is my jawbone fully grown?  Does my jaw have enough bone to secure implants? Your Richmond Hill dentist should also know if you have any known health issues that could interfere with bone healing.

Having missing teeth, broken teeth or those with decay enough to be unfixable, would make you a candidate for implants. Also, if you have a hard time with dentures or bridges, this design can offer a steadier option. Even if there is some bone loss, there have been many advances in reconstruction and technology, so most people can benefit from this dental option.

Anyone who is good health, and can have a regular extraction and/or oral surgery, can be considered for dental implants. Healthy gums and bone are needed to hold the implants securely. You need to be willing to go for regular dentist visits and have or develop good oral hygiene.

Types of Dental Implants

There are different types of implants, just like any other dental option. Two of the most common types are Endosteal and Subperiosteal. Endosteal implants are often made of titanium. They are the most common type, shaped like small screws and placed in the jaw. The Subperiosteal implants are similar to Endosteal, except the implant is put on the jawbone, but still under the gum. You should speak to your Richmond Hill dentist to find out which choice is best for you.

Caring for your implants

Remember, dental implants will develop plaque just like natural teeth. Because plaque can cause a bad smell, it is a good idea to visit a dentist regularly for a good cleaning. Bacteria can also cause a bad odor, so by going for checkups, you can make sure all is in good order with your teeth. There are always risks, and knowing them will help you decide if implants are right for you. There can be infection at the site of the implant, damage to nearby natural teeth, nerves and blood vessels. This damage can cause issues like tingling and numbness in your chin, gums, lips and teeth.

There are many benefits to getting dental implants. Dental implants will last a lifetime. They look natural, feel natural, and allow you to eat and speak naturally. They give you natural chewing power, and are more esthetic than many dental options. Easy to maintain, implants create an even, attractive smile, without the chance of jawbone recession dentures can cause.

Once you’ve decided implants are the right choice for you, contact Sunlight Dental and speak to one of our Richmond Hill dentists to begin your journey towards the smile you’ve always dreamed of.

If you’ve been shy about your smile, or wished for straighter teeth, you’ve probably thought about braces for that brilliant smile. When you think about braces, you are probably brought back to high school and your teenage years and you’re thinking braces aren’t meant for adults but that doesn’t mean you can’t have the straight smile you’ve always wanted. Invisalign Braces have been around for a while and they are a great alternative to traditional metal braces. If your Thornhill dentist has suggested this style of treatment, but you’re still unsure about whether Invisalign is right for you here are a few benefits that will ensure you don’t regret your decision.

They’re Comfortable

While this form of braces is almost like a tray that you put in your mouth, they are surprisingly comfortable. The trays are made of a smooth plastic without any sharp or protruding edges so they won’t scrape against the inside of your mouth. Every tray is made custom to the shape and size of your mouth so it fits naturally.

They’re Invisible

Even though there are multiple benefits to Invisalign Braces, the fact that they straighten your teeth while completely invisible is probably the best benefit. This means you can attend big events and have memorable pictures taken without traditional metal braces in the picture. This benefit can be especially important for adults who may be self-conscious about having traditional braces.

They Save Time

Invisalign can straighten your teeth in just a third of the amount of time as traditional braces, depending on your teeth prior to starting treatment. Additionally, this type of treatment only requires an adjustment and check up once every six weeks while traditional braces and orthodontic treatments often require much more frequent appointments and check ups.

They’re Removable

While you do need to wear the traces for the vast majority of the day, you can remove them while you’re eating for comfort or while brushing your teeth. This can make everyday tasks much more comfortable and convenient than if you had traditional metal braces.

They’re Unrestrictive

With traditional braces, there are certain things you are advised against eating to make sure your braces aren’t damaged and stay in place. Foods that are chewy or sticky are no long offer limits and you can join in all the celebrations with your friends and family.

They Give You Better Oral Health

Having straight teeth is actually better for your overall oral health than dealing with overcrowding or gaps in your teeth. Having straight teeth makes it easier to care for your teeth so you are setting yourself up for better oral hygiene in the long term.

Give yourself a beautiful smile easily with Invisalign braces. The treatment is likely more affordable than you think, and your dentist can help you achieve that million-dollar smile – especially for any big event you have coming up.

If you think that Invisalign braces might be right for you, contact Sunlight Dental Clinic today for an appointment with one of our Thornhill dentists.