FAQs: Cosmetic Dental Care

Do you want a straighter, brighter smile? Enhance your natural smile with cosmetic dentistry. Dr. Brent Blaylock offers cosmetic dental solutions that address stained, injured, and damaged teeth. Contact Dr. Blaylock for cosmetic dental care in Durham, NC if you want to create a healthier, more aesthetically pleasing smile. Dr. Blaylock works with patients individually to find the right treatments for their cosmetic goals.

Cosmetic Dental Care in Durham, North Carolina

Cosmetic Dental Care FAQs in Durham, NC

Are you interested in cosmetic dentistry but want to know more about your treatment options? Read answers to popular questions about our cosmetic treatments below:

What is dental bonding?

Dental bonding uses a malleable biocompatible resin to cover dental injuries and discoloration. Bonding can treat a variety of cosmetic problems, including:

  • Gaps between teeth
  • Crooked teeth
  • Stained or yellowed teeth
  • Dental injuries

Do porcelain veneers damage natural teeth?

No, porcelain veneers do not damage the natural tooth enamel. We prepare teeth for veneers to prevent a bulky restoration and ensure that the veneers conform to the smile. In addition, removing a small portion of the enamel does not damage the overall tooth structure.

Should I get dental bonding or porcelain veneers?

Although dental bonding treatment and dental veneers offer similar treatments, they differ in material and longevity. Our porcelain ceramic veneers are thin shells that we place on the front of teeth. The dental bonding material is sculpted onto prepared teeth. Veneers are more costly than bonding treatment but can easily address all teeth in the smile line or the teeth that appear when you smile. Dental bonding benefits patients with slight imperfections like a single chipped or discolored tooth. Bonding is a more economical option but may need touch-ups over time.

What causes tooth discoloration?

The most common causes of discolored teeth are tobacco, foods and beverages, dental injuries, and medications. Many foods and beverages such as berries, wine, and tomatoes stain the enamel. Smoking and vaping can also easily cause yellow teeth. Chipping or cracking teeth exposes dentin underneath the enamel, which is darker than the outside layer of the teeth. Finally, medications may have side effects that darken or discolor teeth. Some teeth can be brightened with professional teeth whitening treatment. Intrinsic stains caused by the dentin require dental veneers or tooth bonding treatment.

When will I see the results from teeth whitening treatment?

Patients will typically see quicker whitening results with in-office treatment. Our in-office professional teeth whitening treatment delivers results within one office visit. It takes more time for patients to see results from take-home treatment. However, take-home whitening benefits patients with tooth sensitivity or those who want to gradually brighten their smiles from the comfort of their own homes.

Enhance Your Natural Smile

Get an even, bright smile with cosmetic dentistry treatments. Schedule a dental appointment with Dr. Blaylock on our website. New patients can call 919-518-9963, and current patients may contact our office at 919-493-8036. Do not hesitate to ask us any questions about your cosmetic options and we will be glad to help.

Location

3206 Old Chapel Hill Road
Suite 300
Durham, NC 27707

Schedule Appointment

new patients 984-213-4695

current patients 919-493-8036

Hours

Monday: 8:30am – 5:00pm
Tuesday: 8:30am – 5:00pm
Wednesday: 8:30am – 5:00pm
Thursday: 8:30am – 5:00pm
Friday: Closed