Cosmetic Dentistry
Can I Replace My Old Metal Crowns?
Dental crowns have been an excellent, reliable restoration to rehabilitate tooth damage for decades. When a tooth is weakened by cracks, decay, or bacteria buildup, a crown can provide coverage and protection for the enamel — often saving a tooth from further damage or even extraction. While the functional benefits are significant, the dental crowns of the past were often unsightly. Traditionally fabricated with metal amalgam or gold, these crowns […]
Next Page »How Long Will it Take to Enjoy My New Smile?
Smile Makeover timelines vary from patient to patient. As a custom treatment plan tailored for each person, no two Smile Makeovers are the same — some can be completed in a single office visit while others may take a few weeks (or months) to complete. Although only a consultation with our multispecialty dental team can confirm your treatment timeline, the following offers a brief primer into what you can expect […]
Next Page »San Diego Cosmetic Dentists Use Digital Imaging Technology to Preview New Smile
The team at Scripps Center for Dental Care uses Digital Smile Design (DSD) to show patients a virtual “preview” of their potential results before any treatment. La Jolla, CA — There are a variety of cosmetic dental flaws that can detract from the beauty of one’s smile, including tooth discoloration, gaps, chips in the enamel, missing teeth, and natural wear and tear, among other common issues. These concerns can typically […]
Next Page »What Causes Teeth to Look Aged?
When your full, healthy, and youthful teeth begin to dull and lose their shine, it can be easy to feel less confident in your smile. There are many factors that can affect the appearance of your teeth over time, including discoloration, wear and tear, and the loss of a full tooth structure. Aside from the natural effects of aging, these concerns can be caused by: Bruxism (grinding) and teeth clenching: […]
Next Page »Are the Results of Porcelain Veneers Reversible?
When it comes to minimally invasive dental treatments that can powerfully enhance your smile, porcelain veneers offer a wide scope of improvements. By bonding a veneer to the front of the enamel, patients can reclaim the size, shape, color, and dimensions of a healthy and youthful tooth. That said, these results aren’t possible without first removing a tiny amount of tissue from the affected tooth in order to make room […]
Next Page »What if I Didn’t Finish My DIY Orthodontic Treatment?
The allure of DIY (do-it-yourself) braces is easy to understand — these systems advertise a more convenient treatment process when compared to getting braces at a dental office, often for a cheaper cost. Unfortunately, these mail-order products are often riddled with unforeseen issues and complications that can be frustrating to deal with at best, and damaging to your jaw alignment at worst. Recently, SmileDirectClub declared bankruptcy and immediately ceased all […]
Next Page »How Can I Get Rid of Tetracycline Stains?
Tetracycline is an antibiotic commonly used to treat health concerns such as ear infections, bacterial infections, UTIs, and bronchitis. Unfortunately, one side effect of consuming these antibiotics is permanent enamel discoloration below the gumline, which often results in yellow, orange, or gray staining on the surface of the teeth. While tetracycline is no longer prescribed to certain groups of people due to these concerns, individuals who were given tetracycline in […]
Next Page »What Happens if I Don’t Repair a Crack in My Tooth?
A cracked or fractured tooth may or may not need treatment, depending on the severity of the damage. A tooth generally consists of several layers, including the outer enamel, the inner core of the tooth (dentin), and the soft dental pulp. A fracture can penetrate any or all of these layers, and the most appropriate treatment for your needs will be based on whether the crack affects your appearance, your […]
Next Page »How Do I Keep My Invisalign® Aligners in Good Condition?
Invisalign® clear aligners have revolutionized the way patients straighten their teeth, offering a more comfortable and less obtrusive treatment to realign your smile when compared to traditional braces. While Invisalign® tends to achieve the desired outcome within the same timeframe as metal braces, the treatment time associated with Invisalign® generally depends on how often you wear your aligners, as well as your ability to keep them in good condition. When […]
Next Page »San Diego Cosmetic Dentists Outline Treatments to Reclaim a More Youthful Look
The AACD-accredited dentists at Scripps Dental Care outline the various treatments that can help La Jolla patients enjoy a younger, healthier appearance. La Jolla, CA — The natural aging process can catalyze many changes in one’s appearance, some of which may not be as favorable as others. Age-related changes to a patient’s smile and dentition are often overlooked, potentially causing individuals to look older than they may feel. Fortunately, modern […]
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