While traditional dentistry focuses on oral hygiene, preventing, diagnosing, and treating oral disease, cosmetic dentistry focuses on improving the appearance of a person’s teeth, mouth, and smile. Cosmetic dentistry can be elective or desired treatments and services.

Cosmetic dentistry may provide restorative benefits. For example, when replacing old, failing mercury fillings, you now have the option to have a non metallic tooth colored filling placed to restore your tooth. This restores a tooth with materials that closely match the color of your teeth, thus maintaining the natural appearance of your teeth and smile.

Cosmetic Trends:

Technological advancements in natural-looking, tooth colored dental materials make today’s cosmetic dental treatments more durable and predictable than ever before. Additionally, Dr.Shlafer has always been conservative in his technique to preserve as much of your natural tooth structure as possible.

Cosmetic Treatments:

Inlays/Onlays: Inlays and onlays are made from porcelain or composite materials and are a long-lasting way to restore a tooth with structural damage. These are fabricated in a lab or made in our office with the use of CEREC technology that allows for completion of the restoration in one visit.

Composite Bonding: Bonding works well for chipped, broken, discolored, or decayed teeth that need repair. This type of restoration blends invisibly with the remainder of the surrounding tooth structure.

Teeth Whitening: Whitening is one of the most popular cosmetic procedures. Teeth are often stained from smoking, food, drink, or poor oral hygiene. Bleaching can be an easy way to enhance your smile.

Dental Veneers:  Veneers or porcelain laminates are adhesively bonded to the surface of a tooth to correct or repair chips,cracks, and wear or severe discoloration. Veneers may also be recommended if you have gaps between your teeth, when several teeth are done at a time, the space available can be redistributed to reshape the teeth and close the gaps.

Dental Implants: Dental implants are artificial tooth replacements that are used to compensate for tooth loss. Often the result is not only an enhanced smile, but a more youthful appearance, since missing teeth can cause the face to collapse, making you look older.

Smile Makeover: Smile makeovers involve a comprehensive assessment of your smile esthetic in order to improve your overall appearance. Typically one or more cosmetic procedures are needed to achieve the look you want.

While consulting with you about a smile makeover to improve the esthetics of  your smile, Dr.Shlafer may discover that there is a need to correct functional problems with your bite, muscles, teeth, and bone structure.

Cosmetic dentistry offers many options for people who are dissatisfied with their smile. If you are one of those people, we encourage you to come in and speak with Dr.Shlafer about the possibilities of a new look!

Q: Beyond simply changing the color of my teeth, what options are available to change the shape of them or how my smile looks?

A: Several different options are available to change the shape of your teeth. They can be made to look longer, any spaces between them can be closed  and chipped or cracked teeth can be repaired. Among the options are bonding, crowns, veneers and re-contouring.

Dental bonding is a procedure in which a tooth-colored resin material is applied to the tooth surface. It is hardened with a special light which ultimately “bonds” the material to the tooth. A dental crown is frequently made of porcelain and fits over your natural tooth. After your  crown is returned from the lab, it is then permanently cemented into place. Veneers are wafer-thin, custom-made shells of tooth colored materials that are designed to cover the front surface of  teeth. Re-contouring or reshaping of the teeth is a procedure in which small amount of tooth enamel is removed to change the tooth’s length, shape or surface.

Each of these options differ with regard to cost, durability, stain resistant qualities and appointment time necessary to complete yourprocedure. Why not schedule a complimentary visit with Dr.Shlafer today? Together you can discuss what cosmetic approach is best for resolving your individual concerns.

Finding the right cosmetic dentist requires careful consideration and not all general dentists provide cosmetic procedures. When choosing a cosmetic dentist, you are selecting a dental professional who will help you change your appearance by improving the look of your teeth and smile and with Dr. Shlafer, you have the best of both worlds!

Dr. Shlafer has extensive experience in cosmetic procedures and as your  general dentist, he already has a picture of the current status and condition of your mouth. Dr. Shlafer takes many factors into consideration  before cosmetic treatment begins which include, the condition of your teeth, the health of your gums, supporting bone structure and occlusion. Dr. Shlafer understands these factors will have an impact on the longevity of the cosmetic treatment you desire.

Some things to consider:

1. How long has the dentist been in practice?  Dr. Shlafer has been practicing dentistry in the Farmington area for 24 years now.
2. Investigate the level of cosmetic dentistry experience. Dr. Shlafer will be happy to discuss the specific details about what he can offer you during your next re-care appointment or if you are new to our practice,  it can be discussed  during a complimentary visit.
3. Are there before and after photos of previous patients to show you? Dr. Shlafer has several examples of patient photos available for you to see and help you imagine what he can do for you.
4. How extensive is the dental practice? Do they offer study models, bonding pre-views, or lab wax-ups to help you visualize what you are planning?  These services are standard for the cosmetic patient undergoing a smile make over with Dr. Shlafer.
5. What dental technologies are used in the practice to help serve your needs?  Lasers, caries detection devices, CAD/CAM restoration,and intraoral imaging are just some of the technology Dr. Shlafer offers to his patients.
6. What patient comforts are provided? Dr. Shlafer offers his patients headphones to provide calming music, oral sedation, nitrous, comfortable chairs, blankets and pillows that will make the treatment process  a more relaxing and anxiety-free experience.

Cosmetic dentistry results may vary and are dependant on the skill of the dentist. We’re here to let you know you have chosen the right place!  Dr. Shlafer is exceedingly skilled and the staff is friendly, welcoming and quick to address your concerns. Please call for your complimentary evaluation, you’ll be glad you did!

Is your smile everything you want it to be?

Are your teeth discolored or crooked?

Does your smile match the rest of your image?

Are you ever self-conscious about your smile?

Do you find yourself not smiling in family photos, or covering your mouth when you smile or talk?

Do your teeth look short and flat?

Are your gums a healthy pink, or are they red and puffy?

If any of these questions has stirred your interest in what might be possible for improving your smile, Dr.Shlafer can help. We have many before and after pictures in the office and on our website that will give you an idea of the variety of treatment options that are available.

We all have an image we want to project in our business and personal lives. If your smile is not projecting the healthy,attractive, professional and youthful image you would like Dr.Shlafer can help you create the smile you have always wanted. In an esthetic evaluation Dr.Shlafer takes into account elements of your face and mouth that are attributable to naturalism, proportion, and elegance. Many people are unhappy with their smile and the impact it has on the image they wish do project. Do you wish you had a new smile? Come in for a complimentary smile evaluation and discuss the possibilities!

Dental bonding is a procedure in which a tooth- colored resin material is applied and hardened with a special light. This light ultimately bonds the material to your tooth surface thus restoring a chipped tooth or improving your smile.

Dental bonding is an option that may be considered:

• To repair decayed teeth (composite resins are used to fill cavities)
• To repair chipped or cracked teeth
• To improve the appearance of discolored teeth
• To close spaces between teeth
• As a cosmetic alternative to amalgam fillings

What are the Advantages and Disadvantages of Dental Bonding?

Advantages: Bonding is among the easiest and least expensive of cosmetic dental procedures. Another advantage is compared to veneers or crowns, less of your tooth’s enamel is being removed and frequently does not require anesthetic.

Disadvantages: Although the material used in dental bonding is somewhat stain resistant, it does not resist staining as well as crowns do. Another disadvantage is bonding materials do not last as long and are not as strong as other restorative options, such as a crown or veneer. Additionally, bonding materials can chip and break off the tooth.

Because of some of the limitations dental bonding presents, many dentists view it as best suited for small cosmetic changes, temporary correction of cosmetic defects or for correction of teeth in areas of low bite impact. (for example, front teeth) It’s always best to discuss with Dr.Shlafer what would be the best cosmetic approach to your particular dental need.

When seeking a cosmetic dentist, consider the artistic skill of the dentist. Materials are universal, however the design and specifications of a procedure play a major role in the esthetic appeal of the final product. This skill requires a sense of artistry combined with a vision that will enhance your features and create your perfect smile.

Q. Are there any special considerations for veneers?

A.  Some factors you will want to consider:

• Your goals
• The color of your teeth. Most veneers are ultra thin and therefore translucent, so discolored teeth may show through. Teeth whitening may be recommended to reduce discoloration. Veneers are fabricated to have a natural tooth like appearance and match surrounding teeth.
• Your lifestyle and habits, such as teeth grinding and clenching may make a veneer more susceptible to chips, cracks and breaking. If you are interested in veneers, come in for a complimentary evaluation and see how you can achieve the smile of your dreams!

Q. What should I ask during a cosmetic evaluation appointment?

A.  One of the first questions you should ask is what type of training Dr.Shlafer has for the particular procedures you are interested in. Not all dentists know and perform all cosmetic dentistry procedures.

• You should ask to see before and after pictures. Ask questions about their cases and the techniques Dr.Shlafer used to improve their smiles.
• You should ask if the dentist is a accredited member of the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry.  As an accredited member, Dr.Shlafer has undergone extensive continuing education and rigorous testing to ensure that his cosmetic procedure skills are exemplary.

If you are unhappy with the appearance of your smile, the first step is to have an cosmetic evaluation with Dr.Shlafer. He will develop a cosmetic treatment plan that is just right for you.

Cosmetic dentistry offers many options for people that are unhappy with their smiles. If you are one of those people, read on.

• CEREC®: Cerec is a revolutionary way to restore damaged teeth in a single visit. With CEREC® there is no need for Dr. Shlafer to take impressions, no temporary crown, no lab involvement, no return visit for the patient. This restorations is natural looking because it is made of a tooth colored ceramic material. It is metal free–no silver or metal to discolor your smile! This technique allows Dr.Shlafer to be extremely precise and save as much of your tooth as possible
• Dental Implants: Dental implants are artificial tooth root replacements that are used as part of prosthetic (crowns, bridges, dentures) dentistry in order to compensate for tooth loss. Often the result  is not only an enhanced smile, but a more youthful appearance, since missing teeth cause the face to collapse, making you look older.
• Dental Veneers: Veneers or porcelain laminates are adhesivsively bonded to the surface of a tooth to correct and repair chips and cracks. Veneers will improve discoloration by changing the shade, or gaps by reshaping and resizing the look of your tooth.
• Smile Makeover: Smile makeovers involve a comprehensive assessment of your smile  with Dr.Shlafer to determine what you would like done to improve its overall appearance. Typically one or more cosmetic dentistry procedures will be required, involving several teeth in both the upper and lower arches in order to achieve the look you want.

TOMORROW: Cosmetic dentistry questions.

Cosmetic dentistry focuses on improving the appearance of a person’s teeth, mouth, and smile. As an added bonus, by enhancing your smile you can create a more youthful appearance. Cosmetic dentistry may also provide restorative benefits. For example, dental fillings are a common procedure used to treat decayed teeth, years ago your only option may have been an amalgam filling (which left visible dark spots on the teeth). You can now select fillings made of resin material that closely matches the color of your teeth, thus maintaining the natural appearance of your teeth and smile.

Technological advancements in natural looking, tooth colored dental materials make today’s cosmetic dental treatments more durable and predictable than in years past. Dr.Shlafer has always used a more conservative cosmetic dentistry technique, this allows him to preserve as much of your natural tooth structure as possible. All of the cosmetic treatments that Dr.Shlafer provides can be done in our office, usually without the need for referrals to a specialist. Let’s take a look at some of the cosmetic dental treatment that are available:

• Teeth whitening: Whitening is perhaps the most commonly requested cosmetic procedure. Teeth are often stained from smoking, food, coffee, tea, red wine or poor oral hygiene. There are generally two options for bleaching: a 2 hour appointment with several applications of bleaching material or a tray bleaching system which can take 2-3 weeks to complete. A complimentary bleaching consultation will evaluate you as a candidate and help you decide which system is best for you. Bleaching your teeth can enhance the appearance of your smile.
• Bonding: Chipped, broken, discolored or decayed teeth may be repaired or have their appearance altered using a bonding procedure. A dental composite material with the look of enamel is applied to your tooth, it is then sculpted into shape, contoured and hardened with a high intensity light. The end result is a restoration that blends invisibly with the surrounding tooth structure.

Tomorrow:  CEREC®, Veneers, Implants