Randal Watson DDS, PA
13809 Research Blvd. Ste. 804
Austin, TX 78750
Ph. (512) 351-7019
Fx. (512) 219-0152
Cosmetic dentistry is more than simply improving the aesthetic beauty of your teeth. Cosmetic dentistry improves the strength and health of the tooth along with its appearance, while giving you more self-assurance and confidence along the way. At the practice of Dr. Randal Watson, we are skilled in many cosmetic dentistry procedures, and we are happy to answer any questions you may have to help you determine which procedure will achieve the smile you’ve always wanted.
Even with the greatest care, sometimes it is impossible to prevent teeth from becoming slightly discolored. Red wine, coffee, tea, and tobacco can be the biggest culprits, but even if you avoid all of these you may still find that your teeth are just not as sparkling white as you would like. Luckily, with modern dental technology, these discolorations can often be removed simply and easily through teeth whitening. Contact Dr. Watson’s office today, and we will be happy to discuss the different options available for teeth-whitening procedures.
If your front teeth are discolored beyond what can be remedied with teeth whitening, or they are slightly worn, chipped, or misaligned, or you are simply unhappy with their appearance, you may benefit from porcelain veneers. Veneers are wafer-thin layers of durable porcelain laminate that Dr. Watson adheres to the front side of your teeth.
Veneers are so life-like that no one will ever know they aren’t your real teeth. The porcelain laminate is translucent, just like a natural tooth, so when light strikes the surface, most of it passes through and is reflected off of the enamel behind it. Also, porcelain veneers are much more stain resistant than natural teeth, so your new smile will stay pearly-white much longer.
If a tooth has been damaged structurally, or if a large filling has compromised the integrity of a tooth, the best treatment option may be a dental crown. Like a veneer, a crown covers the exterior of the tooth, while leaving as much of the interior as possible. Unlike a veneer, a crown covers the entire outside of the tooth, forming a protective shell around the damaged interior. Since crowns are made from tooth-colored composite material, they look exactly like the original tooth. In addition to adding strength to a damaged tooth, crowns can also be used to cover teeth that are chipped, misaligned, or discolored.
Over the last several years, advancements in dental technology have created vast improvements in the longevity and safety of dental fillings. Metal fillings, comprised of mercury amalgam, have been replaced with composite — or tooth-colored — fillings. Composite fillings are visually superior, but more importantly, they increase the tooth’s overall strength.
If you would like to learn more about any of the cosmetic dentistry options available at our office, please contact us today.