Cosmetic Dentistry

Cosmetic dentistry is dentistry aimed at creating positive changes to your teeth and your smile. Although cosmetic dentistry procedures are usually elective, treatments such as dental crowns and bridges also provide restorative benefits. Here are some of the most common cosmetic dentistry services:

Teeth Whitening

Whitening is the most common and popular cosmetic dental procedure. It can be performed at Dr. Johnson’s office, often in a single visit, or at home with a take-home whitening kit. He can whiten your teeth with a special bleaching agent to achieve those pearly whites you’ve always wanted, and overcome stains from food, wine, tea, coffee, medication, and personal habits such as smoking.

Inlays and Onlays

Inlays and onlays are also known as indirect fillings. These are typically made by a dental laboratory and used on a tooth that has mild to moderate decay or insufficient tooth structure to support a filling. An inlay is applied directly onto the tooth surface. When there’s more significant damage to the tooth, Dr. Johnson may use an onlay to cover the entire surface.

Inlays and onlays are typically made in a dental laboratory using a composite of porcelain or ceramic material and attached with adhesive dental cement. They provide support to strengthen teeth, restore their shape, and avoid further deterioration.

Cosmetic Bonding

Cosmetic bonding repairs decayed, damaged, or discolored teeth using material that matches tooth enamel color. Dr. Johnson will remove tooth decay then apply the bonding material onto the tooth’s surface. He then “sculpts” it into the right shape before curing it with a high-intensity light. This procedure effectively covers any damage and restores the appearance of a healthy tooth. Cosmetic bonding is one of the least expensive cosmetic dentistry procedures available to patients with tooth decay, chipped, cracked or worn teeth.

Dental Veneers

Dental veneers are custom-made covers that fit over your natural teeth. They look natural and can correct numerous cosmetic problems, from crooked teeth to cracked or damaged enamel to noticeable gaps between two teeth and discoloration. Dr. Johnson applies a veneer to the front surface of each tooth using a dental adhesive.

Dental Implants

Dental implants are both cosmetic and restorative. They can replace lost or badly damaged teeth. Each implant is anchored by a small titanium screw that goes directly into the jawbone at the site of the missing tooth. This serves to support a dental crown, also called a restoration. Dental implants are nearly indistinguishable from your surrounding natural teeth. When the bone and supporting tissue fuse with the implant, it is permanently secured. Healing from an implant procedure normally takes six to 12 weeks. Dental implants look and feel like your natural teeth and require the same oral hygiene care.

When you want dental care that’s fun, safe, and comfortable for your whole family, trust Erik Johnson, DMD, PC a family and cosmetic dentist in Butte, MT. Call 406.494.9300 for more information or simply use our convenient Request an Appointment form.