How can I whiten my teeth? There are two types of bleaching procedures. “Chairside” bleaching can be done in the dental office, or the dentist may dispense a system for the patient to use at home. The office procedure takes about 30 minutes; in the home treatment, the patient places a special bleaching gel in a mouthguard and wears it up to two hours a day for several weeks. For more information, contact the American Dental Association at www.ada.org.

What is bonding? Bonding is a term that describes procedures that involve applying tooth-colored material to the surface of a tooth. Bonding can be used strictly for cosmetic purposes or to repair cracked and chipped teeth, or to protect the teeth against decay. For more information, e-mail your name, address, and topic of interest to info@dentistrytoday.org.

What are veneers? Veneers are thin, custom-made shells made of tooth-colored material that cover the front side of teeth. They are used to close gaps or cover teeth that are stained, poorly shaped or slightly crooked. For more information, e-mail your name, address, and topic of interest to info@dentistrytoday.org.

What is enamel shaping? Enamel shaping is a process of contouring natural teeth to improve their overall appearance. Usually quick and painless, it is generally used when teeth are slightly crowded or uneven, or when eye teeth appear too long. The procedure involves removing or contouring enamel to create harmony and balance in the mouth. For more information, e-mail your name, address, and topic of interest to info@dentistrytoday.org.

What are dental implants? Implants attach artificial teeth directly to the jaw. There are several types of implants, chosen on the basis of the jawbone’s adequacy to support them. The endosteal implant is placed directly into the jawbone; the subperiosteal implant holds the new tooth in a metal frame that rests on the jawbone under the gum tissue. Implants are secure and natural looking, but there are possible limitations that should be discussed with your dentist. For more information, e-mail your name, address, and topic of interest to info@dentistrytoday.org.

When may I consider orthodontia? Orthodontia can benefit both adults and children; in fact, it is recommended that nearly every child receive an orthodontic evaluation. Because an adult’s facial bones have stopped growing, it may be necessary to consider corrections beyond braces in order to correct malocclusion - a “bad bite” that is inherited, acquired or suffered through an accident. For more information, contact the American Dental Association at www.ada.org.