A Patient's Guide to Cosmetic Dentistry in Locust Grove, OK

A dentist is examining a model of a person 's teeth with braces.

There are many cosmetic dentistry procedures that can help you achieve your dream smile. Read here for a patient's guide to cosmetic dentistry in Locust Grove.

Around 82% of Americans in the 20-34 year-old age group have decayed/missing teeth, or have had their teeth filled. Most of those people likely aren't happy with their smiles. It's hard to feel good about your smile when your teeth are less-than-perfect. A radiant smile is within your reach. 

Cosmetic dentistry is a go-to solution for countless individuals looking to improve their smiles. A stunning smile can boost your confidence and make a significant impact on your overall attractiveness. Read on to find out how your dentist in Locust Grove, OK, can help transform your smile.


Tooth Whitening Is Quick and Easy

If you have healthy teeth but aren't thrilled with their color, you'll want to discuss teeth whitening with your dental care provider. Teeth whitening is quick and effective. It's one of the most sought-after cosmetic dental procedures. Of all the cosmetic dental procedures, this is one most people can schedule during their lunch hour or after work.


Also called bleaching, tooth whitening is a unique process that lightens the color of your teeth. The whitening solution removes stains and discoloration from your teeth.


You have two options. One is to purchase over-the-counter products. The other is professional teeth whitening at your dentist's office. Professional options are faster and provide more reliable results.


When you choose the professional option, your dentist or dental hygienist will apply a whitening gel to your teeth. After applying the gel, they'll use a special light to activate it.


Once you've completed the whitening process, you can help prolong the results by avoiding tobacco, coffee, and tea. Maintaining good oral health can also help you keep your teeth white. 


In-office whitening procedures are safe and can significantly improve the appearance of your smile. If you have unfilled cavities or other unresolved dental issues, your dentist will wait until your teeth are healthy before scheduling this treatment.


Dental Bonding Is a Popular Cosmetic Dental Procedure

Another option your dentist may offer is dental bonding. Cosmetic dentists use bonding to address a range of dental imperfections.

The procedure begins with your dentist selecting the best color resin. The color should be one that closely matches your natural teeth.


To begin the dental bonding procedure, your dentist will prepare the tooth's surface. First, the dentist roughens the surface of the tooth and then applies a conditioning liquid. Preparing the surface helps make sure the bonding material sticks to the tooth.

After applying the resin, the dentist will use a bright light to harden the resin. Once hardened, the resin conceals chips, gaps, and discoloration.


Dental bonding is an excellent choice if you need minor cosmetic enhancements. Bonding may not last as long as veneers or crowns (two solutions we'll discuss next). It's possible you'll need to schedule appointments for touch-ups over time.

If you and your dentist decide to move forward with bonding, there are things you can do to better care for bonded teeth. Maintaining excellent oral hygiene is critical.


Avoid chewing and biting hard objects, like ice and hard candy. Limit foods and drinks known to stain teeth. Following your dentist's care tips will help ensure your bonding procedure lasts for a long time.


Have You Heard About Veneers?

Veneers are another popular cosmetic dentistry option. Patients and dentists like veneers because they can address a wide range of dental imperfections.


Veneers are thin shells that fit over the front surfaces of your teeth. They look like tiny, thin shells. Porcelain is the material usually used to make veneers.


Before your dentist can determine if you're a good candidate for veneers, they'll want to schedule an initial consultation. When you're ready to move forward, you'll come back to begin the procedure.


First, your dentist will prepare your teeth. Part of the preparation includes removing a small amount of the enamel from each tooth's surface. Veneers must have a surface to adhere to, and this part of the procedure creates that surface.


Your dentist then creates a mold from putty and takes an impression of your teeth. Once the mold hardens, it will be sent to the lab that will create your veneer.


At your final veneer appointment, the dentist places the veneers on your teeth. Voila, you have a perfect, natural-looking smile.

If your dentist determines that you're not a good candidate for veneers, they may talk to you about crowns.


A crown is another dental procedure designed to help improve the appearance of your teeth. A crown is a tooth-shaped cap that fits over a damaged tooth. Dentists use crowns to restore broken, decayed, and worn-down teeth.


Introducing the Smile Makeover

While most of the options we've talked about so far are single procedures, a smile makeover can include several different dental procedures. Smile makeovers are not a one-size-fits-all solution. Dentists can customize these procedures to fit each patient's needs and expectations.


To make that happen, your dentist will meet with you to gather information about what you're hoping to achieve with your makeover. During the initial assessment, the dentist evaluates several factors, including facial appearance, skin tone, and hair color.

The dentist will evaluate your teeth, including color, shape, and the way they fit in the structure of your mouth. Your dentist will also look at your gum tissue and the shape of your lips.


Procedures your dentist may offer as part of your smile makeover include:



Whether you decide on one or all of these cosmetic dental procedures, when your smile makeover is complete, you'll have a brand-new, dazzling smile. 


Cosmetic Dentistry Can Help You Smile Brighter

When you're not excited about smiling because you just don't love your smile, it's time to learn more about cosmetic dentistry. One or more of the dental procedures we've covered can transform your smile. 


Dental Arts is here to help you determine which procedures will give you the smile of your dreams. We offer warm compassionate care and make it easy and convenient for you to schedule dental visits.


If you're looking for a premier dentist in Locust Grove, OK, we'd love to meet you. Reach out today to book your appointment.

By Dental Arts of Catoosa March 28, 2025
According to the Centers for Disease Control, about 21% of adults ages 20 to 64 have at least one untreated cavity. Leaving a cavity untreated can lead to a severe infection that may spread throughout the body. In rare cases, it can become fatal. Instead of delaying treatment, ask your dentist in Catoosa, OK, about getting a laser cavity filling . What are the benefits of this dental innovation? Read on to find out! Why Seek Treatment? According to the World Health Organization , untreated dental cavities in permanent teeth are the most common health condition worldwide. Cavities are holes that develop due to untreated tooth decay. Acids can wear down (erode) your tooth's protective outer layer (enamel). Common symptoms of a cavity include: Bad breath Toothaches A bad taste in the mouth Sensitivity to hot or cold Facial swelling Bleeding gums If these symptoms sound familiar, consult your Catoosa, OK dentist right away. They can recommend a pain-free cavity treatment. Without treatment, the cavity can reach your tooth pulp (the innermost layer of a tooth). An infection may form on the tip of the tooth's root before spreading to the surrounding tissues. In rare cases, the infection can spread to the bloodstream (sepsis) or the brain. A dental filling can restore your tooth before you require more extensive treatments. What Is Laser Dentistry? Laser dentistry is a minimally invasive dentistry procedure that uses highly concentrated light. The light can remove or reshape tissue. In addition to treating cavities, this dental innovation is also used for: Gum disease Teeth whitening Hypersensitivity Uses Though still used among other modern dental techniques, laser dentistry became common in the 1990s. It can be used for both hard and soft tissue procedures. Hard tissue procedures include: Cavity detection Tooth sensitivity treatment Tooth preparations and dental fillings The laser may find evidence of tooth decay, allowing you to begin immediate cavity treatment. During the procedure, you won't require local anesthesia or traditional drills. Instead, the laser will kill the bacteria in your cavity, improving the tooth's long-term health. Soft tissue procedures include: Crown lengthening Treating gummy smiles Treating tongue frenulum attachment The laser can reshape gum tissue if the gums are covering your teeth, improving the appearance of your smile. Crown lengthening involves reshaping bone and tissue to improve the tooth's structure. This can help with placing future tooth restorations. Other procedures include: Removing benign tumors Treating TMJ Treating obstructive sleep apnea Viewing the inside of a tooth or gum tissue Teeth whitening Treating cold sores Nerve regeneration Benefits A laser cavity filling procedure can help with more than improving dental health. Here are a few benefits to discuss with your family dentist if you need cavity treatment. Cavity Detection Not all cavities appear at a surface level, making them more difficult to detect. In some cases, dentists can struggle to reach the damaged area. The dentist may need to remove teeth to properly view or repair the infected tooth. A dental laser can detect and treat cavities that aren't easy to see. The laser will assess parts of the mouth that other dental instruments can't. Choosing modern dental techniques may save your tooth. Minimally Invasive Dentistry Dental drills can sometimes unnecessarily remove natural, undamaged portions of a tooth. Dental lasers, on the other hand, are precise and less invasive. This precision allows them to remove decayed or damaged tissue without harming surrounding structures. Choosing this minimally invasive dentistry technique can help with improving dental health. If dental drills make you nervous, this option can also provide peace of mind. Since the treatment is minimally invasive, your recovery time may improve. You can get back to eating your favorite foods without prolonged delay. Combats Infection Dental lasers sterilize tissue as they work. This ensures that residual bacteria are eliminated during the procedure. Choosing treatment using a dental laser may help reduce your risk of post-treatment complications, including infection. Carbon dioxide lasers can strengthen your tooth enamel's natural structure, making the tooth more resilient than before. Remember, dental lasers can treat both hard and soft tissues. According to market research company Grand View Research , laser dentistry is primarily used in periodontics (17.8% of all applications). Talk to your dentist if you have periodontal (gum) disease. They can treat the infection before it affects your overall health. Pain-Free Cavity Treatment Modern dental techniques are more effective at finding and cleaning cavities without causing as much pain as older dental instruments. You may not need much or any anesthetic during your procedure. Instead, you can remain comfortable while receiving the treatment you need. Safe for Improving Dental Health If you have a cavity, this dental innovation is a safe and effective treatment option. It's safe for both children and adults. Recognizing these benefits may give you peace of mind before your appointment. Lasers are more precise than drills. There's a lower chance that a dentist will damage other parts of your tooth while removing the infected area. Less Dental Anxiety Since this pain-free cavity treatment is less invasive, it won't cause discomfort, which may ease a patient's dental anxiety. Reduced dental anxiety can encourage patients to return for routine appointments. Scheduling regular appointments and preventive dentistry can protect your oral and overall health. If you have crippling dental anxiety, talk to your Catoosa dentist about sedation dentistry. Sedation dentistry can keep you calm during the procedure to ensure you receive the care you need. Your dentist can develop a customized treatment plan based on your concerns. Schedule Your Laser Cavity Filling Getting a laser cavity filling can protect your smile and improve your overall health. Don't delay seeking treatment for your cavity. Instead, consult your Catoosa, OK dentist to determine if this pain-free cavity treatment is right for you. At Dental Arts, we prioritize our patients to ensure they receive the treatment they need. With up to 25% off in-office dental plans, convenient evening and weekend appointments, and a commitment to providing excellent care in a friendly environment, we can make it easy for you to maintain peak dental health. Contact us now to schedule your laser cavity filling appointment!
By Dental Arts of Catoosa March 24, 2025
Cosmetic dentistry is growing at an unprecedented rate. According to Identity Dental Marketing, in 2024, the number of people who underwent treatments like veneers, teeth whitening, and complete smile makeovers significantly increased. The surge in demand reflects a growing desire for brighter, more uniform smiles and increased confidence in personal and professional settings. Both procedures can enhance your smile. However, they differ in their approach, longevity, cost, and suitability for different dental concerns. Understanding the differences between veneers and bonding can help you choose the best option. Keep reading to explore their unique benefits, costs, and which treatment might be the best fit for you. What is dental boding? Dental bonding is when a tooth-colored composite resin is applied to the teeth to correct imperfections. The resin is strategically sculpted, hardened with a special light, and polished to integrate with the natural tooth. This treatment is excellent for minor cosmetic matters and is one of the quickest and most affordable ways to enhance your smile. Dental Bonding Benefits Dental bonding is an effective and affordable way to improve the appearance of your teeth . It is a great option for minor cosmetic enhancements without invasive procedures. Here's a deeper dive into the benefits: Quick and painless: The procedure is usually completed in a single visit, often in less than an hour per tooth Affordable: The cost of veneers vs bonding favors bonding, making it the more budget-friendly solution Reversible: Since very little to no enamel is removed, the procedure can be reversed if desired. Great for minor corrections: Bonding is best for small chips, slight discoloration, and minor gaps between teeth. what are dental veneers? Dental veneers are customized thin shells commonly created out of porcelain and bonded to the teeth' front surface. Veneers are a complete smile transformation. They provide a long-lasting solution for various dental imperfections. Veneers Benefits Dental veneers provide a long-term solution for those looking to enhance their smile. They are an excellent choice for individuals seeking a more dramatic transformation with lasting results. With their ability to mimic the natural translucency of teeth, veneers offer a highly realistic and aesthetically pleasing appearance. Durable and long-lasting: Porcelain veneers can last 10-40 years with proper care Stain-resistant: Unlike natural teeth, porcelain veneers resist staining from coffee, wine, and other pigmented foods Comprehensive smile enhancement: They can cover discoloration, close gaps, fix misshapen teeth, and create a uniform, aesthetically pleasing smile Differences Between Veneers and Dental Bonding Cosmetic dental treatments vary in approach and effectiveness, making it essential to understand which option best suits your needs. When you are looking at dental bonding vs veneers, it is important to know that they both enhance the smile but differ in several ways. Material and Appearance Dental bonding uses a tooth-colored composite resin sculpted directly onto the tooth. Veneers, on the other hand, are made from porcelain or composite material. They offer a highly polished, natural appearance that mimics real teeth. Durability and Lifespan Dental bonding typically lasts five to seven years, while veneers can last 10 to 40 years with proper care. Veneers are more resistant to chipping and cracking compared to bonding. Stain Resistance Composite resin used in bonding can stain over time, especially with regular consumption of wine, tea, coffee. Porcelain veneers, however, are highly stain-resistant, keeping your smile bright for years to come. Procedure Time Bonding is a quick solution, often completed in one visit. Veneers usually require multiple appointments. The veneer process involves: Taking impressions Fabricating the veneers in a dental lab and bonding them to the teeth Tooth Preparation Minimal to no enamel is removed for bonding, making it a more conservative option. This makes bonding an attractive choice for those who want to maintain the integrity of their natural teeth. Veneers require the removal of a thin layer of enamel to ensure a proper fit, making them a permanent choice. Cost of Veneers vs Bonding The cost of veneers vs bonding varies significantly. Bonding is generally more affordable, with an average cost ranging from $300 to $600 per tooth . Veneers, on the other hand, are a more substantial investment, costing between $900 and $2,500 per tooth . The price difference is due to the materials used, the procedure's complexity, and the results' longevity. While veneers have a higher upfront cost, they last longer than bonding. This makes them a worthwhile investment for those seeking a permanent cosmetic solution. Are You a Candidate for Cosmetic Dentistry? Anyone unhappy with their smile due to discoloration, chips, gaps, or uneven teeth may benefit from cosmetic dentistry options like bonding or veneers. However, healthy teeth and gums are essential before undergoing any cosmetic treatment. Issues like cavities or gum disease must be addressed first to ensure long-term success. A consultation with a qualified dentist will help determine the best course of action based on your dental health and cosmetic goals. Why Choose Dental Arts for Your Smile Makeover? At Dental Arts in Locust Grove, OK, we understand that choosing a cosmetic dental procedure is a significant decision. Dr. Michaelsen and his team provide top-tier cosmetic dentistry options in a welcoming, patient-focused environment. Here's why patients trust Dental Arts: Experienced and compassionate care: Our team prioritizes patient health and comfort Flexible scheduling: Evening and early morning appointments make it easier for working professionals to get the care they need Affordable solutions: We offer an in-house dental plan to help reduce costs for our patients Personalized treatment plans: Every smile is unique, and we customize treatments to fit your needs Dental Bonding vs Veneers: Making the Right Choice Choosing between dental bonding vs veneers depends on your specific needs, budget, and long-term goals. Dental bonding benefits those who want a quick, cost-effective fix for minor imperfections. Veneers benefit those seeking a long-lasting, stain-resistant solution for a perfect smile. Consulting a trusted cosmetic dentist can help you determine the best option for your situation. At Dental Arts, we offer comprehensive cosmetic consultations to guide you toward the best treatment for your dream smile. Contact Dental Arts in Locust Grove, OK, today to schedule your free consultation. Let us help you achieve the confident, beautiful smile you deserve!
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