CREDIT RIVER DENTAL CENTRE Because no two smiles are alike
CREDIT RIVER DENTAL CENTRE Because no two smiles are alike
All patients visiting our clinic are required to complete the Patient Screening Form before their visit.
As your Mississauga dental office we try our best to provide you with information that can help you and your family decide on the best course of your dental treatment. When thinking about improving your smile we recommend that you consider how function can improve your lifestyle and ensure you have your teeth for life. Not everyone is a candidate for cosmetic dentistry so it is important to know if you are or what is necessary to ensure you are a good candidate. Once optimal dental function is reached then cosmetic dentistry can be considered. In some cases cosmetic dentistry on its own can improve function. It is best to seek a dental professional that considers all of these factors when planning out your treatment. At Credit River Dental Centre, Dr. Samson Lee assesses and evaluates what is necessary to improve your overall function while also providing you with an aesthetically beautiful smile.
Dr. Samson Lee has been providing patients with dental treatment for over 25 years and in these 25 years these are the common questions patients have asked pertaining to cosmetic dental treatment.
Am I a candidate for cosmetic dentistry?
Unfortunately, not all patients are candidates for cosmetic dentistry. For example, cosmetic dentistry cannot rectify severe crowding. Orthodontic treatment would be the recommended first course of action. Once orthodontic treatment is completed, cosmetic dentistry can be considered if still required. Patients with severe bruxism or untreated sleep apnea are also a group of patients where either a nightguard should be worn after comprehensive treatment and/ or a CPAP should be worn if diagnosed with sleep apnea. Because of the possibility of damaging the cosmetic work done post-treatment, wearing a post-treatment appliance is likely recommended. Heavily restored teeth, that is, teeth with extremely large fillings usually means that a lot of the enamel of the tooth has been removed which compromises the bonding of the crown or veneer. Teeth with severe decay will also have reduced amounts of enamel which also makes it difficult to bond a veneer so a crown would likely be required in this case..
What is the difference between a crown and a veneer?
A veneer is a thin porcelain facing bonded to the front surface of a tooth to give it a more aesthetic look. The shape and colour of the tooth can be changed in order to improve the smile. A crown on the other hand serves not only an esthetic purpose but usually a more functional one. For example, a crown can strengthen a cracked tooth or a tooth that has had a root canal. Generally, a tooth that has been heavily restored is a candidate more so for a crown as opposed to a veneer.
Do veneers/crowns Stain?
Generally veneers and crowns do not stain BUT if they get abraded they can pick up stain and therefore become stained. This can be caused by abrasive toothpaste or solvents. The reason why this occurs is because with abrasive toothpaste and solvents the crown or veneer surface becomes roughened up. The finish on a crown or veneer is smooth so anything abrasive that roughens the surface will cause it to have small scratches that will pick up staining foods. This can sometimes be removed at your hygiene visits but this depends on how deep the scratches are and the type of stain. It is therefore best to avoid scratching the surfaces of your veneers or crowns. Daily homecare such as brushing and flossing will help remove any temporary staining. There is a layer on the tooth surface that can attract stain but with regular brushing this can be removed. Like maintaining your teeth, crowns and veneers will last longer if they are taken care of.
Do veneers/crowns hurt?
Most crowns are done under local anesthetic so there is virtually no discomfort during treatment. This always depends on the patient. Our goal during any treatment is to provide the best treatment with minimal discomfort. Dr. Samson Lee tries to provide the most minimally invasive procedures as possible. When and if discomfort is experienced anesthetic is provided if necessary. Some procedures may not require the use of anesthetic which will be determined during the treatment planning phase.
How long do veneers/crowns last?
Both veneers and crowns can last indefinitely. What matters the most is how they are taken care of post-treatment. These are the factors that affect their longevity:
Cosmetic dentistry can yield beautiful and long lasting results but it is a commitment to ensure your cosmetic dentistry results last as long as possible. Regular dental hygiene visits are important as removal of harmful periodontal and decay causing bacteria are essential to maintaining your new smile. If you have sleep apnea or grind your teeth then a post treatment dental appliance may be required to ensure that you don’t chip your teeth. These are just a few things to think about with your new and improved smile. Cosmetic dentistry can give you the function and smile you’ve always wanted. If you would like more information please visit Cosmetic Dentistry or book a complimentary consultation with Dr. Samson Lee by calling 905-278-4297 or through email at dentistry@creditriverdental.com