Illinois Cosmetic Dentistry

In Gurnee, Illinois
Serving the Chicago metro area

What is cosmetic dentistry?

How do I know if cosmetic dentistry is right for me?

The only thing wrong with my smile is the color of my teeth. What can I do?

I have a cavity that needs filling. What other alternatives are there to the silver fillings?

Can I have my old silver fillings replaced?

Can porcelain veneers cover up the gaps in my smile?

What is the difference between a crown and a bridge?

Where can I learn about Anesthesia?

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What is cosmetic dentistry?

Cosmetic dentistry can be very minor such as closing a small gap or fixing an area of discoloration. More commonly, it reestablishes ideal physiologic conditions and is far more than just beautiful smiles and a sense of well-being. Rejuvenation of facial muscles, posture, and reversal of signs of aging are some of the most amazing results of cosmetic dentistry. This remarkable effect is often called the dental facelift or virtual facelift. A healthy smile should reflect the inner you.

How do I know if cosmetic dentistry is right for me?

Take a look at your smile and your face. If you don't like what you see (discoloration, crooked or missing teeth, etc.), then we might be able to help. If you don't look and feel as good as you deserve, then you owe it to yourself to invest in yourself.

The only thing wrong with my smile is the color of my teeth. What can I do?

We offer several different teeth whitening and Brightening treatments. You can choose to have your teeth whitened in our office or in the privacy of your own home using a tooth whitening kit. To determine which option is best suited for your needs, schedule an initial consultation and discuss the results you would like to see with Dr. Shapira or Dr. Amidei.

Natural looking composite and ceramic tooth-colored restorations

are quickly replacing the old black-looking silver fillings that are part mercury. Although both kinds of fillings serve the same purpose, natural looking fillings are more cosmetically appealing and provide increased resistance to fracture.

Can I have my old silver fillings replaced?

We have not placed Amalgam restorations for several years because there are better options for our patients including natural looking composites, porcelain, ceramic and finally gold restorations. Gold is an excellent material but is used much less frequently than in the past.

Yes, your silver fillings can be replaced even if a replacement is not required. Seeing white when you smile is definitely more appealing than the black looking silver fillings so many people have. Your silver fillings usually last 5 to 8 years and will eventually need to be replaced. If your primary concern is the color and the filling is in good shape, there are other options such as white fillings or porcelain inlays.

Can porcelain veneers cover up the gaps in my smile?

Definitely. Porcelain and ceramic veneers are specifically designed to cover gaps, chips, permanent stains, misshapen teeth and washed out fillings. The thin porcelain veneers are sometimes referred to as instant orthodontics and will give you the beautiful smile you desire.

What is the difference between a teeth crown and a bridge?

Both crowns and bridges are used in restorative dentistry. They are used to return your teeth to a state of structural integrity and your smile to its desired look and maintain your jaw's physiologic health and strength. A single tooth crown is used when a tooth is damaged. A bridge is used when more than one tooth is missing. Crowns and bridges both add stability to the surrounding teeth, and give your smile a more beautiful look.

If you have any questions, contact Delany Dental Care in Gurnee, Illinois for an initial consultation.