Cosmetic dentistry focuses on improving the appearance of your teeth and smile. It encompasses a variety of procedures that can enhance your dental aesthetics. These dental services range from teeth whitening and veneers to complete smile makeovers. Our cosmetic dentistry improves how your smile looks, and boosts your confidence. Dr. Justin Maxwell is a cosmetic dentist in Ellicott City that can help you reach your aesthetic goals for your smile.
Cosmetic Dentistry in Ellicott City
Cosmetic dentistry can whiten, straighten, and enhance the appearance of your teeth. Dr. Maxwell takes a personalized approach to your cosmetic needs. He will create a treatment plan just for you that is designed to support your long-term oral health and wellness. We offer a range of cosmetic dental procedures in our office, including:
- Teeth Whitening: One of the most popular treatments, teeth whitening can brighten your teeth in several shades. Dr. Justin Maxwell offers professional teeth whitening, which produces quick and effective results. Patients can use at-home whitening kits that provide the convenience of whitening at their own pace.
- Dental Veneers: Porcelain veneers are thin shells placed over the front surface of the teeth. They can be made from porcelain or composite resin. The procedure involves removing a small amount of enamel, taking impressions, and then adhering the custom-made veneers. Veneers are ideal for covering discolorations and minor imperfections.
- Dental Bonding: Dental bonding uses a tooth-colored resin to fix chipped, cracked, or misshapen teeth. The resin is applied and then hardened using a special light. Dental bonding is a quick and cost-effective way to improve the appearance of your teeth. With proper care, bonding can last several years.
- Clear Aligners: Dr. Maxwell offers clear aligners, an alternative to metal braces. Clear aligners can treat a range of orthodontic and cosmetic issues and make it easy to straighten your smile.
- Botox & Fillers: Botox and fillers enhance facial aesthetics by reducing wrinkles and restoring lost volume. Botox relaxes muscles to smooth fine lines, while fillers add fullness to areas like the lips and cheeks. These treatments provide a non-surgical way to achieve a more youthful, refreshed look.
Tooth-colored fillings, made from composite resin, are used to repair cavities while maintaining a natural look. Unlike traditional amalgam fillings, these match the color of your teeth. They provide a strong and discreet solution to tooth decay and can offer an instant smile makeover when replacing old silver or dark fillings.
Personalized Smile Makeovers
A smile makeover involves a comprehensive approach to improving your smile. Dr. Justin Maxwell will work with you to create a customized treatment plan. This plan may include multiple procedures such as teeth whitening, veneers, and bonding to achieve the desired results.
Dr. Maxwell uses advanced technology to evaluate and plan your smile makeover. With digital imaging, you can see a preview of your new smile before any work begins. This ensures that you are satisfied with the proposed changes and can make adjustments as needed.
Maintaining Cosmetic Dental Work
Maintaining good oral hygiene is crucial for preserving your cosmetic dental work. Brush your teeth twice a day and floss daily to prevent plaque buildup. Use a non-abrasive toothpaste to avoid damaging any restorations. Regular dental check-ups with Dr. Justin Maxwell are essential. These visits help to monitor your oral health and ensure that your cosmetic dental work remains in top condition. Professional cleanings can also remove any stains and keep your smile looking bright.
Some foods and beverages, like coffee, tea, and red wine, can stain your teeth. Limiting these can help maintain the whiteness of your smile. Using a straw and rinsing your mouth with water can also reduce the risk of stains. Your new smile is an investment in your oral health, so maintaining your results will offer longevity and good dental health.
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the difference between cosmetic dentistry and regular dentistry?
Regular dentistry focuses on keeping your teeth healthy, while cosmetic dentistry improves how your smile looks. However, many procedures like tooth-colored fillings do both. They fix problems while making your teeth look better. Fortunately, Dr. Maxwell specializes in both the health and appearance of your smile.
How long does teeth whitening last?
Professional whitening typically lasts 6-12 months, but it will depend on your habits. Avoiding coffee, tea, red wine and tobacco helps your results last longer. We offer touch-up treatments and take-home whitening kits to keep your smile bright between visits.
Are veneers right for me?
Veneers are great for fixing stained, chipped, or slightly crooked teeth. During your consultation, Dr. Maxwell will examine your teeth and discuss if veneers are your best option. They’re custom-made to look natural and can last 10-15 years with proper care.
Does dental bonding look natural?
Yes, Dr. Maxwell uses tooth-colored resin that blends perfectly with your natural teeth. Bonding is great for small repairs like chips or gaps. It’s done in one visit and looks so natural that most people won’t know you’ve had dental work.
How do clear aligners compare to braces?
Clear aligners like Invisalign straighten teeth without metal brackets. They’re nearly invisible and removable for eating, but you have to wear them for 20-22 hours a day. Braces might work better for complex cases. Dr. Maxwell can recommend what’s best for your goals.
Is Botox at the dentist safe?
Absolutely! Dentists are experts in facial anatomy. Dr. Maxwell uses Botox to smooth wrinkles and can also help with TMJ pain and teeth grinding. Treatments are quick, with minimal discomfort and no downtime.
Will my dental insurance cover cosmetic procedures?
Some procedures, like tooth-colored fillings, may be partially covered if they’re also medically necessary. Purely cosmetic treatments typically aren’t covered, but we’ll help you understand your benefits and payment options. Many patients use flexible spending accounts (FSAs) for cosmetic work.
Are you ready to elevate your look by improving flaws in your smile? Schedule an appointment with Dr. Justin Maxwell today. Call us at (443) 335-8726 to learn more about how we can help you.