What is Cosmetic Dentistry?
- Teeth whitening can renew your smile in a single visit. This treatment can make you look 5 to 10 years younger!
- Porcelain veneers restructure the appearance of teeth with ultra-thin, custom-made sheaths. Bonded to teeth, veneers can last decades with proper care.
- Contouring reshapes the gums, revealing just the right amount of tooth structure to bring sophistication to your smile.
- Tooth-colored fillings repair damage in such a way that full aesthetic value is restored.
- Dental implants reinstate the natural structure of roots, restoring the highest possible form and function after tooth loss.
- Bonding is an indirect veneer process that disguises small flaws such as a chip or crack.
Who is a candidate for cosmetic dentistry?
Cosmetic dentistry is appropriate for any person who is not completely happy with the appearance of their smile. Concerns that we treat range from discoloration to gaps in between teeth and even missing teeth.
How long do teeth whitening results last?
It takes years for stains to build up on your teeth. Typically, this process occurs as tiny molecules from food and your favorite beverages seep into the pores in the outermost layer of tooth material, enamel. Using high grade peroxide and light, we break up these molecules and lift the color of your teeth in a single, comfortable office treatment. How long the results last is somewhat up to you!
Every person is different in how long their teeth stay bright white. If you drink substantial amounts of coffee, tea, or red wine, for example, you may find that your teeth become dull again within months. Smokers, as well, tend to struggle with discoloration due to the chemicals contained in cigarettes.
Maintaining the results from teeth whitening is not difficult. Patients are encouraged to rinse the mouth after a potentially stain-causing beverage like red wine. Rinse, don’t brush. Many beverages are also acidic, and brushing could cause unwanted damage to enamel. Also, we are happy to recommend toothpaste products that have been developed to polish away surface stains.
Is cosmetic dental work expensive?
There are cosmetic dental treatments to fit every budget. The final cost of care really depends on the extent of work that is needed. We work with you to formulate the timing for your smile makeover so that the process is nothing but enjoyable from start to finish.
Does cosmetic dentistry hurt?
Our practice has been established with patient comfort in mind. We understand that, regardless of the pain-blocking techniques used, there are many patients who remain quite nervous about obtaining dental care. It is important to feel good about your smile, and we are here to help you do that. In addition to gentleness and a friendly manner, we utilize the latest techniques to numb the treatment area.
Patients are also encouraged to speak with us about their options for sedation!
Will insurance cover cosmetic dental care?
Cosmetic dental treatments are considered elective. They are intended solely for the improvement of the smile aesthetic. Therefore, insurance coverage typically does not extend to cosmetic treatments. The exception is a procedure that is also restorative in nature, such as dental implants. We are happy to help you determine your benefits for dental care.
What are the latest trends in cosmetic dentistry?
Cosmetic dentistry continues to evolve, offering more natural-looking and longer-lasting results than ever before. Recent innovations include advanced porcelain materials that mimic the light-reflecting properties of natural enamel, digital smile design software for precise treatment planning, and laser gum contouring for faster healing with less discomfort. Dr. Siegelman’s practice stays current with these technologies to provide patients with cutting-edge care delivered in a calm, anxiety-conscious environment.
For patients with dental phobias, these innovations aren’t just cosmetic; they make procedures more efficient, more comfortable, and less intimidating.
What is a smile makeover?
A smile makeover is a customized plan that combines multiple cosmetic treatments to improve the overall appearance of your smile. Whether the goal is brighter teeth, better symmetry, or replacing missing teeth, our dentists begin with a comprehensive consultation that respects your comfort level.
Your smile makeover plan may include teeth whitening, bonding, veneers, implants, or gum contouring. Each step is explained in advance, and procedures are scheduled at a pace that works for you. For anxious patients, sedation dentistry is available to ensure the process is as stress-free as possible.
How can I maintain my cosmetic dental work?
The longevity of your cosmetic dental results depends on daily care and routine maintenance. You are encouraged to brush with a non-abrasive toothpaste, floss regularly, and avoid habits like chewing on hard objects or grinding teeth. After teeth whitening, reducing intake of stain-causing foods and drinks (like red wine or coffee) can help keep your results vibrant.
For patients with veneers, bonding, or implants, follow-up appointments are key to monitoring and preserving your results. Dr. Siegelman and his team provide customized maintenance plans that account for both oral health and dental anxiety.
What’s the difference between professional teeth whitening and at-home whitening kits?
While over-the-counter whitening kits may seem convenient, they typically offer limited results and can cause sensitivity—especially if misused. In contrast, professional whitening uses medical-grade gel and precision application, resulting in significantly whiter teeth in just one visit. Our whitening treatments are performed with patient comfort in mind. For phobic patients, even cosmetic whitening can be anxiety-inducing, which is why the team offers calming techniques and a relaxed setting to help patients feel at ease.
What are the benefits of cosmetic dentistry beyond aesthetics?
Cosmetic dentistry can improve self-esteem, correct bite alignment, and even enhance oral function. For patients who’ve avoided the dentist, restoring their smile can be the first step toward regaining confidence and better health.
What is the difference between cosmetic and restorative dentistry?
Cosmetic dentistry focuses on enhancing the appearance of your smile—addressing concerns like discoloration, spacing, and symmetry. Restorative dentistry, on the other hand, is primarily concerned with repairing damaged teeth and restoring oral function. Some procedures, like dental implants or tooth-colored fillings, can serve both purposes, improving health while also delivering aesthetic benefits.
Can multiple cosmetic dentistry procedures be done at the same time?
In many cases, yes. Our dentists carefully plan combination treatments to ensure safety and comfort, particularly for patients requesting sedation or dealing with dental anxiety. Performing multiple procedures in a single visit can also minimize the number of appointments needed, making cosmetic care more efficient for patients with busy schedules or phobia-related challenges.
Read what our patients are saying!
"Dr. Siegelman does a wonderful job making the most nervous dental patient comfortable while providing unmatched dental care. His training and experience in pain management put in him a different class than most dentists and he's always at the forefront of new dental practice and technology. I cannot recommend him highly enough."
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Schedule a Consultation
In need of cosmetic dentistry in New York City, Westchester County, Long Island, Rockland County, New Jersey or Connecticut? Call (212) 974-8737 today to schedule your consultation with Dr. Louis Siegelman to begin your treatment and to receive phenomenal care. You can also learn more about cosmetic dentistry and the other services we offer on our blog!
