From subtle changes to major repairs, your dentist can perform a variety of procedures to improve your smile. There are many techniques and options to treat teeth that are discolored, chipped, misshapen or missing. Doctor Malony L. Santos dentist at the SM Mall of Asia Philippines, will reshape your teeth. Common procedures include teeth bleaching, tooth bonding, Dental caps, Dental crowns, Dental veneers and reshaping and contouring.

A. Teeth Whitening

Teeth Whitening is a common and popular chemical process used to whiten teeth. Some people get their teeth bleached to make stains disappear while other just wants a whiter shade. Discoloration occurs in the enamel and can be caused by medication, coffee, tea and cigarette. Discoloration also can be caused by your genetic make-up or simply getting older. Bleaching can be performed by your dentist in the office or under dental supervision, at home. Many patients enjoy bleaching at home because it is more convenient. Treatment begins when your dentist creates a custom mouthpiece to ensure the correct amount of whitening solution – 10 percent to 20 percent carbamide peroxide-is used and that your teeth are properly exposed. Typically whitening at home takes two or three weeks, depending on the desired shade you wish to achieve. Whitening in the office may call for two to six 45-minute visits to your dentist’s office.

B. Tooth Bonding

Tooth Bonding is tooth-colored material used to fill in gaps or change the color of teeth. Requiring a single office visit, bonding lasts several years. Bonding is more susceptible to staining or chipping than other forms of restoration. When teeth are chipped or slightly decayed, bonded composite resins may be the material of choice. Tooth Bonding also is used as a tooth-colored filling for small cavities and broken or chipped surfaces. Additionally, it can be used to close spaces between teeth or caver the entire outside surface of a tooth to change its color and shape.

C. Dental Crowns

Dental Crowns also known as Dental Caps are used in cases where other procedures will not be effective. Dental Crowns have the longest life expectancy of all dental cosmetics restorations, but are the most time consuming.

D. Dental Veneers

Dental Veneers or laminates are placed over the front teeth to change color or shape of your teeth. Porcelain Veneers are used on teeth with uneven surfaces or are chipped, discolored, oddly shaped, unevenly spaced or crooked. Porcelain Veneers are thin pieces of porcelain or plastic cemented over the front of your teeth. Little or no anesthesia is needed. Porcelain Veneers are used to treat some of the same problems as bonding. This treatment is an alternative to dental crowns, which are most expensive. The dental procedure requires your dentist to take an Impression of your tooth. Before the custom-made dental veneer is glued directly onto the tooth, your dentist will lightly buff the tooth to compensate for the added thickness of the dental veneer. Once the cement is between the dental veneer and your tooth, a light beam is used to harden it. Porcelain veneers require more than one visit because they are fabricated in a laboratory.Dental Veneers have a longer life expectancy and color stability than bonding.

E. Teeth Contouring and Reshaping

Tooth reshaping and contouring, is a procedure to correct crooked teeth, chipped teeth, cracked teeth or even over lapping teeth in a single session. Tooth reshaping and dental contouring, is commonly used to alter the length, shape or position of your teeth. Contouring teeth may also help correct small problems with bite.It are common for bonding to be combined with tooth reshaping.

This procedure is ideal for candidates with normal healthy teeth, but who want subtle changes to their smile. Your dentist will take X-rays to evaluate the size and locations of the pulp of each tooth ensure that there’s enough bone between the teeth to support them.

Which procedure is right for me?

Dr. Malony can answer many of the questions you may have about techniques used to improve your smile. The condition of your teeth and desired results you want often dictates the best dental procedure. If you are considering a dental treatment, there are a few questions you can ask them before deciding if a particular procedure is right for you.

• What will the changes look like?
• What should I expect through the course of treatment?
• What type of maintenance will be required?