What is cosmetic dentistry?
Cosmetic dentistry is the art and science of designing wonderful smiles. It involves all
aspects of general dentistry with a special emphasis to ensure that the individual teeth, as well as the smile, look their very best.

Should I consider cosmetic dentistry?
Look carefully at your smile. If you feel it could be better, you should consider cosmetic dentistry. Having a beautiful smile goes deeper than appearances. It gives you confidence.
It will give you an edge in your everyday activities, improving your professional and
personal image.

What types of problems does cosmetic dentistry solve?
If your teeth are dark or worn and make you look older, if gaps or chips make you feel
self-conscious, or if crooked or discoloured teeth stop you from smiling fully, cosmetic dentistry can help. The negative effects of abnormal gum tissue or out-of-date dental treatment are also problems that can be corrected with cosmetic dentistry.

If I require fillings which type should I get?
Silver (amalgam) and gold were used extensively in the past. Today tooth coloured
porcelain or composite materials that are strong and extremely wear resistant are the material of choice. You can even give your teeth a “face lift” by removing your old metal fillings and replacing them with “invisible” ones. Be sure to speak to us about the advisability of this process.

What is plaque and how does it affect my teeth?
Plaque is a colourless, sticky film of bacteria that constantly forms on teeth. If left undisturbed, the bacteria in the plaque produces byproducts that can not only irritate
the gums and make them bleed, but can also lead to periodontal disease. A daily
regimen of proper brushing, flossing and rinsing (plus regular dental visits) will help
you keep your teeth healthy.

My gums bleed when I brush or floss. Is this normal?
Healthy gum tissue does not bleed. This is most likely a sign of early gingivitis. If you experience bleeding gums, see us to review proper brushing and flossing techniques.
Also schedule a soft tissue evaluation and prophylactic cleaning. Gum bleeding must be
taken seriously because if left untreated, it will lead to periodontal disease.

How often should I have my teeth professionally cleaned?
People accumulate plaque at different rates. Normally every 6 months is sufficient.

What is “tartar” or calculus and how can I control it?
Tartar is “hardened plaque” that has been left undisturbed. It is a black, solidified
protein layer at the gum line that can only be removed safely with a dental scaling
instrument during hygiene cleaning. The best way to control tartar is to brush and floss everyday.

Why should I spend a lot of money on root canal? Why not just pull the tooth out?
Losing a tooth can be the beginning of many more lost teeth. Saving the tooth maintains space, keeps other teeth from shifting, and eliminates the need and cost of a bridge
or an implant. Although seemingly expensive, it is actually quite cost effective.

Will whitening my teeth hurt me or cause any damage?
No. Tooth whitening is an over 8 year old dental procedure that has been continually improved over time. It is completely safe and a very conservative treatment. The previous Zoom methods were tedious and not as refined as Zoom3. Toothwhitening in Dr Levi's hands does not hurt.