Frequently Asked Questions

What causes the discoloration of teeth?

Discolorations can be caused by staining, aging, or chemical damage to teeth. As the tooth continues to age, more yellowish dentin is deposited on the inside of the tooth, making the pulp chamber smaller, and this can give the tooth a yellowish, reddish, or grayish color. Tooth dullness or staining is an indication that whitening should be considered. Smokers and those who drink coffee and/or tea on a regular basis accelerate the discoloration and require cleaning more often.

What is Bonding typically used for?

Bonding is a technique for placing a tooth-colored composite resin (filling) that is chemically adhered to the tooth surface to repair and/or change the color or shape of a tooth. The tooth colored filling is then sculpted into shape, hardened, and polished. When teeth are chipped or slightly decayed, bonded composite resins may be the material of choice. Bonding also makes a great tooth colored filling for small cavities and broken or chipped surfaces. It can also be used to close spaces between teeth.

What can be done for missing teeth?

Removable partial dentures and fixed cemented bridges are designed to replace missing teeth. Not only do they fill the unsightly spaces left by lost teeth, but they also help support the teeth adjacent to, and directly opposite, the missing teeth. Based on the quality and quantity of remaining bone, dental implants may be placed in the remaining bone, and a crown, partial and/or a denture can be fabricated and fastened to the implant for more support.

How can crooked teeth be corrected?

In some instances, simple reshaping (contouring) of the front teeth, even without using any anesthetic, may produce a dramatic result to correct jagged, chipped or slightly uneven teeth. Dr Chopra simply utilizes creativity, to create a natural look with existing teeth. In some instances, some cosmetic bonding is required to even the teeth Qut, please call the office, and ask for a free smile evaluation. If the teeth are malpositioned, and misaligned, orthodontics (braces) are always the preferred option. If time, finances and convenience do not allow for orthodontic treatment, ash how Instant Orthodontics can help your smile. Before Dr. Chopra starts work, he will show you a before and after mock up of your teeth.

I was told that I have weak teeth, what can be done?

In most instances, after ruling out any uncommon genetic disorders, most cases of weak teeth can be addressed with routine fillings and/or crowns, after a thorough evaluation of the cause for weak teeth. After a diet analysis some patients are given a fluoride supplement to strengthen weaken teeth, and to help desensitize them. If there are excessive biting forces on the teeth, a preventive bite splint (guard) may need to be worn, to prevent further wear aftha teeth. Crowns are used when making strength improvements to the teeth is the goal. A crown is placed over a tooth, replacing most of its enamel. It surrounds the tooth, giving it strength and providing a strong, durable biting surface.

I want a Hollywood smile using Porcelain Laminate Veneers, what are they?

Many times, the demands of cosmetic changes in the mouth are too great for simple bonding of tooth colored fillings. This is when porcelain laminate veneers may be used. Porcelain laminate veneers are quick, painless, and dramatic. They can change shape, color, size, and arrangement of teeth or any combination of these factors. They can be used as an alternative for orthodontic treatment. The best part about porcelain laminate veneers is that they can be placed in 2-3 visits. We usually recommend tooth whitening prior to completing any veneers, to further enhance your smile.