A Cosmetic Dentist in Chanhassen provides a number of procedures that can improve the look and function of your teeth. The most common of these is dental whitening. Whitening the teeth is a simple process that removes deep-set stains under the enamel and in the dentin. This is an area that brushing or rinsing can’t reach. Dental whitening works by placing a thin layer of mild peroxide over the teeth. This solution is made from carbamide peroxide, and comes as a gel or paste. Once the peroxide is in place, the dentist will introduce a little water. The water converts the carbamide into hydrogen peroxide, which causes the cleaning action.
Another useful procedure performed by a Cosmetic Dentist in Chanhassen is the application of veneers. A veneer is a thin layer of very fine material placed over one of lesser quality. In the case of dental veneers, the material to be used is porcelain. Porcelain provides the pearl white look of real teeth with a strength that is unmatched in other materials. Veneers only cover the front, or visible, portion of the teeth. It is useful for hiding several problems, including misshapen teeth, crooked teeth, and severely stained teeth. A quality set of veneers can give you the perfect smile you have always dreamed of.
Some cosmetic procedures are fairly simple. For instance, a Cosmetic Dentist in Chanhassen can fill or file certain teeth to even their size or shape. This may be preferable to replacing them or covering them with a veneer. Shaping and filling is a long-term solution that doesn’t affect the strength of the teeth because only minor portions of the enamel are removed. If the tooth is severely misshapen, the dentist will suggest an alternative procedure.
A fairly new process that a Cosmetic Dentist in Chanhassen can perform is a dental implant. Implants replace a missing tooth or can be used as an anchor for dental appliances. The latter is useful because the standard method of securing a bridge or denture is to anchor it to surrounding teeth. For this to work, part of the tooth must be removed, which reduces its stability. The final results of a dental implant are visually indistinguishable from a real tooth and functions just as well.