Cosmetic Dental Treatments in Austin, Texas
Is there something about your smile that you’ve always wanted to improve? Cosmetic dentistry techniques allow us to help you make changes to your smile that can boost confidence and promote optimal oral health. Our team works with you to design your treatment to be both transformative and affordable.
Cosmetic dental treatments cover a wide range of sophisticated techniques which we can use to help you improve the appearance of your teeth and gums. These treatments can:
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Solea® Dental Laser Technology and Aesthetic Dentistry
We take pride in providing you with the latest in modern dental treatment technologies. One treatment technology which has become increasingly popular in recent years is the dental laser. Our office utilizes Solea Dental Lasers, made by Convergent Dental, in a wide variety of procedures.
Dental laser treatments are vibration-free, very quiet, and require no injections, which dramatically reduces pain and anxiety. The technology employs a unique wavelength to vaporize infection and decay on both hard and soft tissue. The pinpoint accuracy of a high energy light beam cauterizes as it works so there is very little bleeding and healing time is significantly reduced.
Lasers can be used in many different treatments, from preparing a tooth for a filling to removing the bacteria during a root canal. For whitening treatments, lasers are used as a heat source that activates the gel for quicker results. This advanced tool makes shaping or removing gum tissue safe and accurate and can reduce the discomfort of cold sores.
How Do We Use Laser Dentistry?
Our office in North Austin uses the power of laser dentistry to provide a wide variety of dental treatments, including:
- Implant Restoration
- Gum Surgery
- Bone & Tissue Regeneration
- Whiten teeth
- Decay Removal
Solea dental lasers allow us to work faster and more efficiently, thanks to their use of advanced computer technology and increased precision. If you are the type of patient that dreads the noise and motion of a dental drill, visit us for a demonstration to see how easy your treatments can be!
Filling Facts
Composite fillings are made of a mixture of plastic and glass that is very durable and can be carefully color-matched to your surrounding teeth. The material strengthens your tooth and helps prevent chipping or cracking. Composite material provides the best results for small to medium cavities, especially in the highly visible front teeth.
When you visit us for a filling, we will numb the area first then remove any decay. The filling is applied in thin layers slowly to create a strong bond and realistic form. A special curing light is used to harden the composite material; then it is smoothed and polished until your bite is comfortable.
The cost of a composite filling will vary depending on the complexity of your treatment. You can help avoid the costlier procedures by getting regular cleanings and exams to catch cavities when they are very small and easy to treat.
Dental Caps and Crowns
There are several situations where we may recommend porcelain crowns or caps to restore damaged teeth. Crowns are commonly used after root canal therapy, to complete dental implant treatment, or to repair an injured tooth. If the structure of a tooth has been compromised by decay that cannot be treated with a filling, a crown is the best option.
Porcelain crowns are considered restorative, but they can also help improve aesthetics. After the damage portion of your tooth is removed we will take a digital impression that will be used to fabricate your crown. This customization allows the prosthetic to fit comfortably and blend in seamlessly with surrounding teeth.
A crown can last up to 15 years or longer. Practicing good regular oral hygiene habits and keeping your routine dental visits are important to maximizing the lifetime of your crowns.
The Unique Benefits of Porcelain Veneers
Dental veneers are made from thin and durable porcelain, which is color matched to the shade of your surrounding teeth. They attach to the front of a tooth to create a smooth and uniform surface. Veneers enable you to reshape your teeth and smile and may provide an alternative option to crowns in some cases. Veneers can be used to correct:
- Misshapen Teeth
- Discoloration
- Chips and Uneven Wear
- Gaps or Unwanted Spaces
Porcelain Veneer Treatment
Receiving a porcelain veneer usually requires two visits to our office. During your first visit, we prepare your teeth by reshaping them to allow your new veneer to fit well and achieve a lasting bond. Next, we take a detailed mold (impression) of your teeth, which will be used to fabricate your new veneer. The veneer is color-matched to your surrounding tooth enamel for a natural look.
During your second visit, we apply the bonding cement and install the veneer using a special light beam to the adhesive. This procedure is minimally invasive, and most people will only need a local anesthetic.
To keep your veneers in good shape don’t use your teeth as tools to cut string or open packages. Visit our office at least twice a year for a professional cleaning and exam and brush and floss twice a day.
Improve Your Smile with Professional Whitening Treatments
Teeth whitening is one of our most popular procedures because it provides an easy and affordable way to brighten your smile. Whiter teeth can lead to increased confidence and help you make a better first impression. When you feel good about your smile, it shows, and it can make a big difference in your daily life.
Whitening treatments can offer effective results on discoloration due to excessive fluoride exposure or use of medications. Patients whose teeth appear yellowed due to the normal wear of the outer layers of the dentition can see definite improvement after whitening. Additionally, teeth whitening may minimize the stains that result from drinking coffee, tea, or wine as well as from smoking.
Of the several teeth whitening options available, many people prefer to use a simple take-home kit. Professional take-home whitening kits contain a stronger gel than what is available at your pharmacy or online and will allow you to get noticeable results in the comfort of your own home. Remember that if you have any crowns or veneers that have become discolored, they may need to be replaced with brighter versions to match your newly whitened teeth.
Benefits of In-Office Teeth Whitening
In-office whitening can be done in just one visit with fast results that last. Our GLO Brilliant® professional system uses both heat and light to accomplish your goals without causing sensitivity. For a typical treatment, we schedule two appointments with you. At your first visit, we will create an impression mold of your teeth, which will be used to create your custom whitening trays.
At your second visit, we will test fit your new whitening trays to ensure a good fit. After the second appointment, you take your trays home along with the professional strength whitening gel. Just fill the tray with a small amount of gel and wear them for 30 minutes or overnight. Be sure to take care of your teeth with regular brushing and flossing to ensure your whitening treatment lasts as long as possible.
A Straighter Smile with Invisalign®
This orthodontic alternative to metal braces is popular with adults and teens because the clear trays are less intrusive than braces and easily removable. It is important to have a complete exam to determine if your teeth and gums are healthy enough for Invisalign treatment. With digital imaging, we can give you a visual representation of how your teeth will look before we even begin treatment.
The custom trays will be provided for you in sets, which change out every two weeks. Each set progressively moves your teeth a little closer to the desired position. You may even notice the progress as you change from set to set over time. Once you have gone through all the trays made for your treatment, your teeth will have reached their final positions, and the treatment will be complete.
The removability of Invisalign trays means you can take them out for special events or to enjoy your favorite foods. Many people are totally satisfied with the results they achieve with the clear aligners. The reduced visibility of Invisalign trays compared to traditional braces makes them an excellent choice if you don’t favor the look of traditional wires and brackets. The flexible plastic aligners are very comfortable but must be worn for at least 22 hours a day for best results.
Invisalign can treat mild to moderate alignment and spacing issues and has proven very effective for many patients. Visit our office for a consultation to see if Invisalign treatment can help you get the straight, even smile you’ve always wanted.
Love Your Smile with Cosmetic Dental Improvements
Cosmetic dental treatments can provide you with the means to improve your smile in ways that can last a lifetime We know that your smile is very important to you, and if you would like to improve it in any way, we are here to help. Contact us today to schedule an appointment with Dr. Harger or Dr. Jenkins!
CALL US: 512-453-8181 REQUEST APPOINTMENT