Baton Rouge Cosmetic Dentist

Patient Testimonials

Frequently Asked Questions

What is cosmetic dentistry?
It's dental work that enhances the attractiveness of your teeth, and thus of your smile. It also improves the health of your gums and teeth by correcting misalignment and other problems.

How do I know if cosmetic dentistry is right for me?
If you have stained, yellowed, or crooked teeth, or old silver fillings, or an overbite, or any kind of unsatisfactory dental condition, you are a likely candidate for cosmetic dentistry. However, a consultation will be the first step, because every one of us is unique and your particular conditions will be addressed in a way that's customized for you.

Can I have my old silver fillings replaced even if they aren’t falling out?
Yes. Much of the dentistry adults receive these days is a direct result of the ongoing tooth damage caused old fillings. They weaken your teeth and they also have insecure edges. This means that decay can creep under them, and eventually your teeth are so damaged that you need extensive dental work. Crowns and bridges are an option that many people have had to use.

But recent developments have now made it possible for your dentist to bond non-metal substances to your teeth. Porcelain or composite fillings are longer-lasting and don't weaken your teeth. They can replace your old mercury or silver fillings.

I have a cavity that needs filling. Is there an alternative to the silver fillings?
Yes, there are white fillings, or composite fillings, which are matched to the color of your teeth. They're useful for restoring a decayed tooth or repairing a defect. Although most often used on the front teeth where a natural appearance is important, they're sometimes also used on a back tooth if they're small or may be visible. Composite fillings are more aesthetically pleasing and more resistant to fracture than silver fillings.

The only thing wrong with my smile is my yellow teeth. What can I do?
There are various tooth whitening systems, some performed by your dentist and others available for at-home use. The degree of whiteness you can achieve will depend on how discolored your teeth are and what caused that discoloration.

What is the difference between a crown and a bridge?
A tooth crown is a prosthetic which is placed over an existing tooth to enhance its strength and durability and to create a smoother, cleaner look. It may be the best recourse when a tooth is fractured, has an old filling, or is badly decayed. Crowns strengthen and protect what remains of the tooth and can improve the appearance of your smile. Types of crowns include the full porcelain crown, the porcelain-fused-to-metal crown and the all-metal crown.

A bridge is a grouping of interconnected crowns, designed to replace missing teeth and support surrounding teeth. When anchored by two crowns, a bridge can lower the risk of gum disease, help to correct bite issues and even improve your speech. When performed by a well-trained cosmetic dentist, a bridge is long-lasting (more than 10 years)

Can porcelain veneers cover up the gaps in my smile?
Yes. Porcelain veneers are extremely thin layers that are bonded to your teeth. They can be custom-shaped, so that slight crookedness and small gaps can be corrected by the small variations in the contours of the veneers. We're all individuals, so consult your dentist. Larger gaps may require braces, to gradually move the teeth into better allover positioning.

I've been careless about my teeth and don't know where to start in getting them fixed. Help!
First thing is, you're not alone. Many of us grew up without learning proper dental care and by the time we wise up, the damage is already extensive. The first thing to do is consult with a cosmetic dentist, and one that's fully trained. Look for one with LVI training (Las Vegas Institute), as this is widely accepted advanced training. We're all different and you need someone to assess your particular conditions. A good cosmetic dentist will explain all your options, offer a variety of ways to pay, and give you good follow-up as you proceed through whatever treatments are chosen.

Can I avoid those high dental costs and whiten my own teeth with an over-the-counter treatment? Well, yes and no. You can buy a product, whether whitening toothpaste, or polyethylene strips using hydrogen peroxide, and the packaging will give you a certain amount of information about what's in it. Not all will tell you the concentration of the whitening agent. But in general, they're all weaker than what a cosmetic dentist uses.

You may be disappointed in the outcome, for several reasons. First, are you a good candidate for tooth whitening to begin with? Not everyone is; it depends on why your teeth have become discolored. Second, you could develop a sensitivity to the ingredients. Third, if you use strips or trays, they may not cover your teeth evenly, so that the whitening, if it occurs, may be irregular. And in general, any whitening achieved at home is temporary.

If you do decide to do it yourself, at least visit a dentist first for a professional cleaning, a cavity check, and an assessment of the health of your gums.

If you live in Baton Rouge, Hammond, Port Allen, or anywhere in Louisiana, and are considering cosmetic dentistry in a friendly, caring atmosphere, please call or e-mail us today to set up your preliminary consultation.