Your smile is the first thing most people notice about you. Thanks to the latest technologies in dentistry, you can get a healthy and beautiful smile. Cosmetic dentistry in our Annapolis, MD, dental office can deliver a smile you love and can be proud of.
Dr. Vernon Sheen offers a full range of dental treatments at his cosmetic and family dentistry office. He is an experienced and highly trained cosmetic dentist in Annapolis. Dr. Sheen uses cosmetic treatments to enhance smiles while improving long-term dental health. He believes in working closely with each patient so that he understands their goals and oral health needs.
Cosmetic Dentistry in Annapolis, MD
From teeth whitening to a complete smile makeover, we can help you achieve your aesthetic goals for your natural smile. We offer a full range of cosmetic dental services, including:
Cosmetic tooth bonding
The bon treatment involves using a tooth-colored resin to alter the appearance of a tooth. Dr. Sheen applies the resin to the affected tooth and shapes it by hand into the desired shape. Then, he cures it to the tooth with a hardening light. We can complete the treatment in one dental office visit.
Same-day Dental Crowns
Dr. Sheen offers same-day dental crowns with CEREC. This state-of-the-art system uses CAD/CAM technology. Your dentist will take digital images of the tooth and create a digital 3-D model of the new dental crown.
Dr. Sheen will use the images and our on-site dental laboratory equipment to create the dental crown. Your new cap will be comfortable and natural-looking. Your dentist will permanently bond it into place. It will cover the entire tooth, protecting it from further damage and decay. To learn more about the benefits of same-day dental crowns, see CEREC Restorations.
Clear Aligners with Invisalign®
Invisalign® is an orthodontic treatment that uses clear aligners to reposition teeth gently. This clear aligner system is best for patients with mild to moderate orthodontic issues. It involves wearing a set of aligners for about a week. Then, you move on to the next set until your teeth are in perfect alignment.
Patients enjoy how discreet and comfortable they are compared to metal braces. You can remove them to care for your teeth. To learn more about the benefits of Invisalign, see Invisalign.
Lumineers
Like porcelain veneers, Lumineers are designed to bond to the front of teeth to hide many imperfections. However, they are much thinner and require less tooth preparation. Lumineers are minimal-prep dental veneers made from ultra-thin, quality ceramic material.
Our dentist will customize them to blend with your natural smile. Dr. Sheen will lightly etch the surface of the teeth so that he can attach the veneers. To learn more about the benefits of Lumineers, see Lumineers.
Porcelain Veneers
Porcelain veneers are thin, translucent shells that bond to the front of teeth. They are made from fine dental porcelain. This medical-grade material offers advanced treatment to meet your cosmetic needs and durable results that will resist stains.
Veneers will cover the entire tooth, hiding almost any cosmetic issue. To learn more about the veneer process, see Porcelain Veneers.
Teeth Whitening
Dr. Sheen offers both in-office and at-home teeth whitening options. He is one of the few dentists in the Annapolis area that offers advanced laser teeth whitening.
Dr. Sheen also offers his patients at-home teeth whitening systems. These are popular among busy patients who can’t find time to visit the office for a whitening treatment. During your consultation, your dentist will suggest which is right for you. To learn more about the benefits of professional teeth whitening, see Teeth Whitening.
What to Expect
During a cosmetic dentistry consultation, Dr. Sheen will want to evaluate your oral health history and discuss your aesthetic concerns with your smile. This is a one-on-one meeting between you and your dentist, and it’s essential in determining the best cosmetic dental procedures to enhance your teeth and smile. Here’s what you can typically expect during a cosmetic dentistry consultation:
- Consultation: We will gather your medical and dental history during a basic consultation. Then, you can discuss what you like and dislike about your smile and what you want to change.
- Examination and Evaluation: Your dentist will examine your entire mouth, teeth, gums, and surrounding structures. They may find dental issues that need to be addressed before we can proceed with your cosmetic procedures. You may or may not require X-rays or other imaging. These tools help in the planning and treating phases.
- Treatment Planning: After a full evaluation, we will explain all your treatment options. You can choose which treatment or the several treatments that will best help you reach your goals. Dr. Sheen will then create your custom treatment plan. Your treatment plan may include a combination of general, restorative, and cosmetic treatments. Addressing oral health issues ensures lasting results.
- Cost and Timeline: Once your dentist understands what you expect, we can provide you with an estimate of the cost of your treatment. We will also help you schedule your appointments and plan your treatment timeline.
Cosmetic Dentistry in Annapolis, MD: Before and After Pictures
Ttake some time to view before-and-after photos to see the profound change cosmetic dentistry can have on your smile. Dr. Sheen has documented many cosmetic cases and wants to share those results with you. This can help you determine which treatments may work best for you or give you the desired results.
Visit our cosmetic dentistry smile gallery to see before and after photos of Dr. Sheen’s patients.
Cosmetic Dentistry FAQs
Discover more about cosmetic dentistry in our Annapolis, MD, dental office with answers to these common questions:
Will my dental insurance cover cosmetic dentistry?
Whether your dental insurance covers cosmetic dentistry depends on your specific plan. Many dental insurance plans only cover procedures considered necessary for health, like fillings or crowns, rather than those purely for appearance, like teeth whitening or veneers.
However, some plans may cover part of the cost of a cosmetic procedure that also improves dental health. Check your plan details or call your insurance company. We can also help you understand your coverage and provide treatment estimates.
What is the most popular cosmetic treatment?
The most popular cosmetic dental treatment is teeth whitening. Many people want a brighter smile, and teeth whitening can help remove stains caused by coffee, tea, wine, and other foods. This simple and quick treatment can be done at the dentist’s office or at home with take-home kits.
Can cosmetic dentistry improve my oral health?
Yes, cosmetic dentistry can improve your tooth and gum health. Treatments like dental crowns and veneers can repair damaged teeth to prevent decay or infection. Cosmetic care can help your teeth fit together better. This can make it easier to chew and speak, reducing strain on your jaw.
Cosmetic dentistry can help you keep your natural teeth for a longer time by fixing problems like decay or crooked teeth. When your teeth are straight and lined up properly, it’s easier to brush and floss them. This makes it less likely for you to get cavities or gum disease.
How do I maintain my results after cosmetic treatments?
Follow these tips to help you take care of your new smile:
- Brush and floss regularly to remove plaque and keep your teeth and gums healthy.
- Be careful with hard foods that could chip or damage your dental work.
- Limit coffee, tea, red wine, and dark sauces that can stain your teeth.
- Drink plenty of water throughout the day to wash away food particles.
- Visit our dentist regularly for checkups and cleanings.
Do cosmetic dental treatments hurt?
No, while you may feel some sensitivity after cosmetic treatments, they do not hurt. For example, during veneer treatment, we numb your tooth before we prepare the enamel. Tooth sensitivity is also common after teeth whitening. We will recommend pain relievers and toothpaste for sensitive teeth after treatment. Our office will ensure you feel comfortable during and after treatment.
Can I get veneers instead of teeth whitening treatment?
Yes, you can get veneers instead of teeth whitening treatment. Veneers are thin shells that cover one or all teeth that show when you smile. We can customize their size, shape, and shade. Veneers can also fix tooth chips, gaps, and other imperfections.
Whitening is great for people whose teeth are healthy but need a brighter look. However, it might not work as well on some types of stains.
If your main goal is to change the color of your teeth, whitening is less invasive and less expensive. However, veneers might be better if you have other issues, like chipped or uneven teeth.
Which lasts longer: veneers or Lumineers?
Porcelain veneers are usually thicker than Lumineers. With proper care, veneers can last 10 to 15 years or longer. They are strong and can handle normal wear and tear. Lumineers are much thinner and last about 5 to 10 years. They are also less invasive; we can place them without removing much of your natural tooth.
In general, porcelain veneers last longer than Lumineers. However, the exact lifespan of either option can depend on how well you care for your teeth.
Is Invisalign better than braces?
Invisalign and braces are popular ways to straighten teeth. No one treatment is better than the other. It’s all about your specific needs.
If you have mild to moderate problems, we may recommend Invisalign. Traditional metal braces may work for you if you have more complex concerns.
Get Cosmetic Dentistry in Annapolis, MD
Cosmetic care improves your smile, boosts your self-confidence, and contributes to your health and wellness. Contact our Annapolis dental office today to schedule a cosmetic dental consultation with Dr. Sheen. Call (443) 482-5202 or request an appointment online.