Cosmetic Dentistry in Duncanville, TX

Cosmetic Dentistry FAQ

Am I a candidate for cosmetic dentistry?

Most patients are candidates for cosmetic dentistry. We look at your oral health, your goals and your lifestyle, then build the plan around all three. Every plan starts with an exam, because the teeth need to be healthy before anything cosmetic is done.

What is the difference between bonding and veneers?

Bonding is quicker and more affordable and is done in a single visit, while veneers last longer and resist staining better. Bonding is a quick, non-invasive fix for chips, cracks, gaps and uneven edges. Porcelain veneers are ultra-thin ceramic shells bonded to the front of the teeth to mask discoloration, gaps or misshapen enamel.

Does teeth whitening work on all types of stains?

Whitening works best on surface staining from coffee, tea, wine and aging, and it does not change internal discoloration, crowns or veneers. We offer both in-office and take-home systems. Where whitening will not reach a stain, porcelain veneers can mask the discoloration instead. We also check for decay first, since whitening over untreated decay makes it more visible.

How long do veneers last?

With proper care, porcelain veneers commonly last ten to fifteen years or longer. Good daily hygiene, moderation with staining foods and drinks, and routine cleanings are what protect them. Because a veneer bonded to an unhealthy tooth fails, we make sure the tooth is healthy before one is placed.

Are cosmetic procedures painful?

Most cosmetic procedures are not painful; they are minimally invasive and comfortable with local anesthetic, and several need no numbing at all. Gum recontouring, for example, is done gently with a soft tissue laser. You see a mockup of the intended result before treatment begins, so you know what each step is for.

Can I preview my results before committing?

Yes, you can preview your results: digital smile design shows you a mockup of the intended result before treatment begins. We can adjust the design on screen, and you can change your mind about any of it while it is still a picture. The iTero scanner takes precise impressions with no trays, so the plan starts from an accurate record of your teeth.

Will insurance cover any cosmetic services?

Insurance usually does not cover cosmetic services, though procedures with a functional benefit may qualify. We check before you decide. Where a plan needs spreading, we offer in-house payment options and work with third-party lenders, and you get the full cost in writing before treatment begins.

How do I maintain my results?

Maintain cosmetic results with good daily hygiene, moderation with staining foods and drinks, and routine cleanings. Coffee, tea and wine are the usual causes of surface staining, so going easy on them helps whitening and bonding stay bright. Routine cleanings also let us check the health of the teeth underneath the work, which every cosmetic result depends on.

Is Invisalign only for adults?

No, Invisalign is not only for adults; teenagers do very well with it, and their aligners include compliance indicators. The indicators show whether the aligners are being worn as intended. Invisalign straightens teeth with removable, virtually invisible trays.

How soon can I get started?

You can get started quickly, because we offer same-week consultations. Treatment starts with an exam, so the teeth are healthy before anything cosmetic is done. You see a digital mockup of the intended smile and the full cost in writing before anything begins.