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There are several treatments for an aging smile. Click on one of the following links or scroll down to find out more.
Porcelain veneers
Porcelain veneers are a natural looking solution to a wide range of cosmetic problems. Porcelain veneers are thin shells of porcelain (about as thick as fake fingernails) that are typically bonded to the front and tops of the teeth. Because they are thin, light can shine through them and they take on the natural color of the underlying tooth structure. Only a minimal amount of tooth structure has to be removed.
Advantages
They are beautiful, strong (once bonded in place) and durable. Minimal tooth reduction is needed to install them, and they can often be repaired in the mouth with bonding techniques.
Disadvantages
Their placement requires some tooth reduction, and the procedure is non-reversible, making you dependent on veneers or replacement veneers for the rest of your life. Your dentist must have the technique, experience, and artistic talent to place veneers. This is a two-appointment procedure.
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Bonding
Bonding is a three-step procedure. First, the fronts of the teeth are treated with a mild acid. Next, the plastic bonding material (it has a consistency of bread dough) is placed and sculpted to the desired shape. Finally, the material is hardened with a high-intensity light.
Advantages
Bonding produces strong, natural looking restorations, it allows in-the-mouth repairs, and it's a one-appointment procedure.
Disadvantages
Some tooth reduction is required, and it's generally considered a non-reversible procedure that makes you dependent on bonding for rest of your life. Your dentist must have the proper technique, experience, and artistic talent to perform bonding. Note that relatively few dentists have adequate training in bonding procedures.
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Orthodontics(braces)
Small brackets are bonded to the front of the teeth, then wires of varying size connect the brackets to provide the leverage to move the teeth and close the gap(s).
Advantages
Braces require no tooth reduction or additional application of restoration materials.
Disadvantages
The treatment time for braces is typically 18 to 36 months, the color and shape of the teeth are not improved, and occasionally the procedure may cause tooth roots to shorten.
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Crowns
Crowns are made of porcelain, porcelain and metal, or entirely out of metal. They are best used in cases where teeth are broken down and need structural support and protection. They might also be appropriate if gaps are extremely wide. If your teeth are intact and you merely want to close spaces, stick with bonding, veneers, or orthodontics.
Advantages
Crowns can repair structural damage, are very strong, and can be made from several different materials.
Disadvantages
Crowns require a relatively large amount of tooth reduction, they are less natural looking than veneers or bonding, and they may show a dark blue line where they meet the gums if your gums recede. Porcelain crowns may wear down on opposing teeth.
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