Cosmetic dental care focuses on the smile’s aesthetics, addressing dental problems like discolored teeth, crooked teeth, and minor dental injuries. Patients who are already in good oral health but want to improve their confidence in their smile can benefit from cosmetic treatment. If you have wondered about your treatment options but want to learn more about cosmetic dentistry in our Hampton Roads, VA office before treatment, we’re here to help.
Cosmetic Dentistry in Hampton Roads, VA
We encourage our patients to learn about their cosmetic options before treatment. Discover answers to popular questions that many patients have about our cosmetic treatments below:
When do you see results from teeth whitening treatment?
Most patients will see results from in-office whitening after just one treatment. While results are more gradual for patients who choose take-home treatment, they can begin to see a drastic change in their smile after one to two weeks.
Do you need to wear retainers after Invisalign?
Yes, wearing retainers after completing Invisalign treatment will keep your teeth straight. At first, you will need to wear your retainers constantly. After about six months, you can begin to wear your retainers at night. Wearing retainers prevents orthodontic relapse, which occurs when the teeth begin to shift into their previous positions. The retainers maintain Invisalign results to keep teeth straight.
Are porcelain veneers permanent?
With the right care, dental veneers can last over 15 years. Many patients may see veneers as permanent because they need tooth preparation before placing them on the teeth. Tooth preparation removes the outer layer of the tooth to ensure that the veneers look and feel natural. Preparation also ensures that the veneers do not look bulky and that they adhere properly. Patients must be committed to covering their teeth with a treatment like veneers because of the preparation process.
Can I whiten my teeth if I have tooth sensitivity?
Yes, we can provide teeth whitening treatment for patients with sensitive teeth. If patients have extreme sensitivity, we may recommend alternatives like veneers. Dental veneers are shell-like treatments that can cover the front of one or all teeth in the smile line.
How long do you need to wear Invisalign every day?
Invisalign patients should wear their aligners 20 to 22 hours a day, only removing the aligners to eat and drink. Wearing the aligners for this amount of time keeps them on track for completing treatment in a timely manner. If patients do not wear their aligners for many hours or days, it can take them time to get back on track.
At First Light Dental of Coastal Virginia, we welcome your questions about your treatment options. Call Dr. William Harper for cosmetic dental care today at 757.414.7227. Feel free to schedule a dental appointment with us online.