Cosmetic Dentistry

Cosmetic dentistry focuses on improving the aesthetic appearance of your teeth, gums, and overall smile. While general dentistry addresses oral hygiene, prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of oral disease, cosmetic dentistry focuses on enhancing the appearance of your smile. This field of dentistry can address various issues, including discoloration, misalignment, gaps, chips, cracks, and irregular shapes or sizes of teeth.

Common Cosmetic Dentistry Procedures

At Woodard Family Dentistry, we offer various cosmetic dentistry procedures tailored to meet the unique needs and desires of our patients. Here are some of the most common cosmetic treatments we provide:

Teeth Whitening

Teeth whitening is one of the most popular cosmetic dentistry procedures. It is a simple and effective way to brighten your smile and remove stains caused by food, beverages, tobacco, and aging. At Woodard Family Dentistry, we offer professional teeth whitening treatments that are safer and more effective than over-the-counter options. Our in-office whitening procedures can lighten your teeth by several shades in just one visit, while our take-home kits provide gradual, convenient whitening in the comfort of your home.

Porcelain Veneers

Porcelain veneers are thin, custom-made shells designed to cover the front surface of your teeth. They are an excellent option for correcting a wide range of cosmetic imperfections, including discolored, chipped, misaligned, or unevenly spaced teeth. Veneers are crafted from high-quality porcelain that mimics the natural look and feel of tooth enamel. Dr. Woodard meticulously prepares and bonds the veneers to your teeth, providing a long-lasting and natural-looking enhancement to your smile.

Dental Bonding

Dental bonding is a versatile and cost-effective procedure used to repair minor dental flaws such as chips, cracks, gaps, and discoloration. During the bonding process, a tooth-colored composite resin is applied to the affected area, sculpted to the desired shape, and hardened with a special light. This treatment can be completed in a single visit and provides immediate improvement in your teeth's appearance. Call us to learn more.

SureSmile Aligners

SureSmile aligners are a popular alternative to traditional metal braces for straightening misaligned teeth. This orthodontic treatment uses a series of clear, removable aligners to gradually shift your teeth into their desired positions. SureSmile aligners are virtually invisible, making them an attractive option for adults and teens who want to straighten their teeth discreetly. At Woodard Family Dentistry, we offer SureSmile treatment to help you achieve a straighter, more aligned smile without the inconvenience and appearance of traditional braces.

Dental Implants

Dental implants are a permanent solution for replacing missing teeth. They consist of a titanium post surgically placed into the jawbone that serves as a sturdy foundation for a dental crown, bridge, or denture. Implants look, feel, and function like natural teeth, proving to be a durable and aesthetically pleasing solution for restoring your smile. Dr. Woodard has extensive experience in implant dentistry, ensuring successful and lasting results.

Gum Contouring

Gum contouring, also known as gum reshaping or tissue sculpting, is a cosmetic procedure used to improve the appearance of an uneven gum line. Excess gum tissue can make teeth appear too short or create a "gummy" smile. Conversely, gum recession can expose too much of the tooth. Dr. Woodard uses advanced laser technology to precisely remove or reshape gum tissue, creating a more balanced and attractive smile.

Tooth-Colored Fillings

Tooth-colored fillings, also known as composite fillings, are used to repair cavities and restore the natural appearance of your teeth. Unlike traditional metal amalgam fillings, tooth-colored fillings blend seamlessly with your natural teeth, providing a more aesthetically pleasing result. Dr. Woodard uses high-quality composite resin materials that are durable, long-lasting, and closely match the color of your natural teeth.

Benefits of Cosmetic Dentistry

Cosmetic dentistry can provide numerous benefits beyond enhancing the appearance of your smile. Here are some of the key advantages of undergoing cosmetic dental treatments at Woodard Family Dentistry:

Improved Self-Confidence

A beautiful smile can boost your self-esteem and make you feel more confident in social and professional settings. When you are happy with your smile, you are more likely to smile more often, which can positively impact your interactions with others and improve your overall quality of life.

Enhanced Oral Health

Many cosmetic dentistry procedures also have oral health benefits. For example, straightening misaligned teeth with Suresmile aligners can improve your bite and make it easier to maintain good oral hygiene. Replacing missing teeth with dental implants can prevent bone loss and maintain the structure of your jaw.

Long-Lasting Results

The results of cosmetic dental treatments, such as porcelain veneers, dental implants, and teeth whitening, can last long when properly maintained. Investing in cosmetic dentistry can provide you with a beautiful smile for many years to come.

Personalized Treatment Plans

At Woodard Family Dentistry, we understand that every patient is unique. Dr. Woodard takes the time to listen to your concerns, evaluate your oral health, and develop a personalized treatment plan tailored to your specific needs and goals. Our patient-centered approach ensures that you receive the highest level of care and achieve the best possible outcomes.

The Cosmetic Dentistry Process

The cosmetic dentistry process at Woodard Family Dentistry begins with a comprehensive consultation. During this appointment, Dr. Woodard will discuss your aesthetic goals, evaluate your oral health, and recommend the most suitable treatments to achieve your desired results. Here is an overview of the typical steps involved in cosmetic dental treatment:

Initial Consultation

Your journey to a more beautiful smile begins with an initial consultation with Dr. Woodard. During this appointment, you will discuss your cosmetic concerns and goals, undergo a thorough oral examination, and possibly have diagnostic images taken. Dr. Woodard will then present and explain the available treatment options and help you decide on the best course of action.

Treatment Planning

Once you have decided on the desired treatments, Dr. Woodard will develop a detailed treatment plan outlining the steps involved, the expected timeline, and the estimated costs. He will also address any questions or concerns you may have and ensure that you are fully informed about the procedures.

Preparation

Depending on the chosen treatments, you may need to undergo preparatory procedures. For example, if you are getting veneers, Dr. Woodard will remove a small amount of enamel from the surface of your teeth to create space for the veneers. If you are receiving dental implants, you may need to undergo a surgical procedure to place the implant posts.

Treatment

The treatment phase involves performing the chosen cosmetic procedures. Dr. Woodard uses advanced techniques and state-of-the-art equipment to ensure precise and effective results. The duration and number of visits required will depend on the complexity of the treatments.

Follow-up and Maintenance

After completing your cosmetic treatments, Dr. Woodard will provide you with aftercare instructions and schedule follow-up appointments to monitor your progress. Maintaining good oral hygiene and attending regular dental checkups are essential to preserving the results of your cosmetic treatments.

Conclusion

If you are looking to enhance your smile and boost your confidence, cosmetic dentistry at Woodard Family Dentistry in Spokane Valley, WA, can help you achieve your goals. Dr. Christopher S. Woodard, DMD, and our dedicated team are here to provide you with the highest quality care and personalized treatment plans to transform your smile. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and take the first step towards a more beautiful and radiant smile.