High-quality Cosmetic Dentistry in Portland, OR
Cosmetic dentistry includes dental procedures that improve a person’s teeth and gums, resulting in a better, more noticeable smile. Although the term cosmetic dentistry is commonly referred to as redundant, since general dentistry is aimed at improving the look and feel of a patient’s teeth; the term focuses more of an emphasis on improving the smile and overall appearance of the teeth.
Dentists who practice cosmetic dentistry have extensive experience in techniques that can greatly improve a person’s confidence and give them a new look on life. A smile can be transformed from a no-tooth grin to a full, brilliant, white smile. It is for these reasons that cosmetic dentistry has become more and more popular throughout the United States.
Tooth bonding is the application of a tooth-colored resin material using a high intensity curing light. Typically used in cosmetic dentistry, for cosmetic purposes, tooth bonding literally bonds the materials to the tooth. Applications for tooth bonding include;
- To fill the spaces between teeth
- To make teeth look longer
- To change the shape of a tooth
- To change the color of a tooth
- As an alternative to amalgam dental fillings or to protect a tooth with exposed gum or nerve
- To repair decayed teeth
- To repair chipped or cracked teeth
Tooth bonding, also called dental bonding is a procedure that takes very little time to prepare. Typically, unless the bonding is used on exposed nerves or to fill a decayed tooth, dental bonding does not require the use of anesthetics, making it a fast and comfortable procedure.
Direct Bonding
The process where a dentist uses tooth-colored composites to fill cavities, repair chips or cracks, close gaps and build up worn down teeth. These materials may also be directly applied and sculpted to the surface of teeth in order to maximize the enhancement of a smile.
Adhesive Bonding
Caring for bonded teeth is the same as caring for natural teeth. Brushing twice a day, flossing, and routine check-ups, as directed by your dentist, will help to maintain the bonded teeth and make them last a long time. One thing to avoid with bonded teeth is biting hard objects such as fingernails, ice, or hard types of food.
Dental bonding is a good choice that can solve a number of dental health problems. It is typically the most common and least expensive cosmetic dentistry procedure. Overall dental bonding is a relatively short procedure and requires little to no removal of tooth enamel. It is also relatively pain free and seldom requires the use of anesthetics, making for a short and comfortable dental appointment.
Metal-Free Restorations are composite (tooth colored) fillings. They are used to repair a tooth that is affected by decay, cracks, fractures, etc.
When you develop a cavity or experience other minor tooth damage, Dr. Quinn can provide you with a dental filling to repair the damage and restore your smile. Our dental fillings are made of BPA-free composite material, meaning that they are designed to blend in with your natural tooth color to provide a beautiful, safe, and long-lasting solution for your oral health needs.
What are Composite Fillings?
A composite (tooth colored) filling is used to repair a tooth that is affected by decay, cracks, fractures, etc. The decayed or affected portion of the tooth will be removed and then filled with a composite material that matches your tooth color. There are many types of filling materials available, each with their own advantages and disadvantages. Composite fillings are the most widely used today. Because composite fillings are tooth colored, they can be closely matched to the color of existing teeth, they are conservative and are bonded directly to your own natural tooth structure.
Tooth colored fillings are more aesthetically suited for use in front teeth or the more visible areas of the teeth. As with most dental restorations, composite fillings are not permanent and may someday have to be replaced. Yet they are very durable, and will last many years, giving you a long lasting, beautiful smile.
Reasons for composite fillings:
- Chipped teeth
- Closing space between two teeth
- Cracked or broken teeth
- Decayed teeth
- Worn teeth
How are composite fillings placed?
Composite fillings are usually placed in one appointment. While the tooth is numb, your dentist will carefully and conservatively remove the damaged part of your tooth. The space will then be thoroughly cleaned and carefully prepared before the new filling is placed. If the decay was near the nerve of the tooth, a special medication might need to be applied for added protection. The composite filling will then be precisely placed, shaped, and polished, restoring your tooth to its original shape and function.
It is normal to experience sensitivity to hot and cold when composite fillings are first placed, however, this will subside over time shortly after your tooth acclimates to the new filling. It is noteworthy, that the bacteria from the cavity might have damaged the nerve although the damage is not visible. Time and your symptoms will indicate if further treatment will be needed.
You will be given care instructions at the conclusion of your treatment. Good oral hygiene practices, eating habits, and regular dental visits will aid in the life of your new fillings.
Porcelain dental veneers can dramatically improve the appearance of your teeth by covering up flaws, discolorations, and other imperfections in your smile. Porcelain closely mimics your natural tooth enamel to provide you with a genuinely beautiful and long-lasting smile.
Porcelain dental veneers can dramatically improve the appearance of your teeth by covering up flaws, discolorations, and other imperfections in your smile.
Dr. Quinn has chosen to use porcelain because it closely mimics your tooth enamel to provide you with a naturally beautiful and long-lasting result. Give us a call today to schedule your consultation and to find out if porcelain dental veneers are right for you!
Everyone loves a bright white smile. It is the simplest and fastest way to brighten your smile. The process uses a bleaching method, targets the natural color of tooth enamel, and brightens the enamel to create a whiter smile.
What is Teeth Whitening?
At On Q, we offer two different whitening options: in-house whitening or at-home whitening trays that are worn during the day.
The duration of treatment depends on the desired level of whitening as well as the level of staining. We find a combination of in-office whitening and take-home whitening brings about the best long-term whitening results.
Benefits of Whitening
Any cosmetic procedure can enhance the beauty of your appearance. Teeth whitening can create the confidence that comes with having a beautiful, natural-looking smile. The procedure is non-invasive and only requires touch-ups every several months to maintain your beautiful new smile.
Would I Benefit from Whitening?
Almost everyone is a good candidate for this type of treatment. Those who may want to strongly consider whitening their teeth include anyone who has stained or yellowing teeth, or if you’re noticing the natural wearing of your teeth. At our Portland dental office, we customize the whitening procedure to ensure you get great results.
Home & After Care
Whether you use an at-home whitening system or opt for treatment in our office, you can help maintain the results by brushing, flossing, and rinsing daily. Also, it’s recommended to avoid acidic and tannin-rich foods and beverages such as:
- Certain teas and coffee
- Red wine
- Carbonated beverages (dark and light-colored sodas)
- Berries and other strongly-colored foods
- Sauces that can stain (soy sauce, tomato, curries)