Cosmetic Dentistry Ann Arbor, MI

You are Never Fully Dressed Without Your Smile

A smile communicates your feelings about yourself and others. It can dazzle and sparkle, charm and entice, or comfort and encourage. A smile says, "Let's talk. I care. Cheer up." Like the lines, colors, and shapes in a painting, your teeth should work together to produce a pleasant effect. A bright smile projects warmth, approval, pleasure, or self-confidence. But a dull smile is much like a sculpture eroded by rain and wind: some of the beauty and luster is lost.

Our office has the artistic and dental skills necessary to restore or "touch up" your teeth to produce your pleasing smile - one that projects the image you want to communicate in your personal and professional lives.

A dental problem - or problems - can produce a dull smile. Unhealthy diseased, stained, or crooked teeth are the major flaws that distract from a smile. A chipped tooth can become weakened and easily fracture. Luckily, modern dentistry offers simple and easy solutions for most of these problems. In addition you may find that your dental insurance may pay a portion of your treatment.

A thorough dental evaluation can help us assess the general health and cosmetic appearance of your teeth and gums. This allows us to create a plan for your future smile.

When you undergo your evaluation you may already have cosmetic dentistry in mind.

Your Dental History

Your answers to a variety of questions help us begin to assess your oral health and determine whether cosmetic dentistry is an option for you. Questions about previous treatment or symptoms, such as tooth sensitivity, may indicate the presence of decay or other problems. You may also be asked whether you want to improve your smile. Asking about habits such as teeth grinding provides your dentist with clues to problems that might endanger cosmetic work.

X-rays

X-rays provide an internal picture of your teeth and jawbones, confirming the absence of abnormalities such as decay or bone loss. X-rays are the best way to ensure that your cosmetic enhancements are built on a solid foundation. They also help determine treatment, if any, is needed prior to beginning your cosmetic work. We utilize state of the art digital radiography which means you are exposed to 90% less radiation.

Your Dental Examination

We will examine your teeth and gums, looking for obvious signs of decay, gum disease, bite problems, and we will evaluate the overall appearance of your smile. During the exam, we also check existing dental restorations, such as fillings, crowns, gaps, fractures, and all other cosmetic defects. We may make models - replicas of your teeth - and take photos of your smile, which provides a record of how your teeth looked before enhancement.

Making Your Decision

Understand your options. Cosmetic procedures differ in many ways. Cost, special care, and durability are just a few of the variables. Knowing the advantages and disadvantages of each option can help you make an informed decision.

Have realistic expectations. Don't expect perfection. Although cosmetic dentistry has come a long way, no restoration can replace your natural teeth. If you understand the limitations, you'll be happier with the final results.

You no longer have to suffer missing, chipped, discolored, or crooked teeth. We encourage you to visit our office to find a treatment that works for you.

Contact our Ann Arbor dental office today to schedule your free Smile Makeover consultation!