In today�s world of the extreme make over, I get a lot of questions regarding how to make someone�s smile look better. In this section, we would like to give you an overview of what is available for consideration. Everyone is an individual, so keep in mind, not all of these choices may be right for you. First and foremost in my office, your mouth must be healthy to consider these options!

Tooth Whitening (also called bleaching)
There are three options to consider:

1. White Strips by Procter and Gamble. Here you place a band aide style strip over your teeth twice a day for 30 minutes. There are three varieties of white strips available. The strongest form has to be purchased through a dental office. This option will usually cost under $70.

2. Home tray systems. Here you will find the strongest and most effective whitening option. The whitening solution is placed in a custom made tray and wore for a minimum of three hours daily for approximately 2 weeks. However white your teeth can become, this system will achieve it. This option will usually cost under $400.

3. In office whitening system (Zoom). This option is done in the office and takes about 2 hours. Here we apply the whitening solution and activate it with a special light to enhance the effect. You will get your teeth about 80% as white as they will get with this system. A follow up home system like above is then used to allow you to continue the process for a few more days

   No whitening system will give permanent results. You will need to touch up your teeth usually every 6-12 months for 2-3 days to hold the color to it�s whitest. Caution: over whitening can cause your teeth to dry out and become brittle. Always allow a minimum of 6 months between touch ups to allow moisture to re-hydrate the tooth.
   
   
   
   

   If you have any questions about tooth whitening, email or contact Havala.

   Orthodontics (Braces)
   While considered by many to be cosmetic, properly aligning your teeth can also improve their health and function. A licensed, board certified orthodontist should do the straightening of your teeth.

   Bonding/Veneers/ Crowns These are three options to cover the teeth in a manner to improve their color, shape, or position and function.

   1. Bonding: Considered to be the most conservative procedure of the three, can give excellent results if done properly. A composite filling material is used to cover the front surface of a tooth. The color can be changed as well as the shape. In many cases, this procedure is reversible and can be removed at a later date if the person wishes to go back to their original condition.

      
      when bleaching doesn't do it all bonding can help

   2. Veneers: Still a conservative procedure, a veneer requires removal of some tooth structure in order to laminate the front surface of the tooth with porcelain to again improve color, shape and in some cases function. Porcelain is usually considered to be the best esthetics, however, it is more costly than bonding.

      

   3. Crowns: The most radical of the three options. Here the entire outside tooth shell is removed and then the tooth is covered with porcelain. This option gives excellent esthetics an can also greatly improve their function.

      
      
      
      

      Just had a procedure done? Click here for information on what to expect afterwards.

      Which option is best for you can be discussed at your next visit. Keep in mind, none of these options should be considered unless your gums are healthy!
      
      Bridges:
      

      

      Implants:
      

      

      All pictures in this section are examples of work done by Dr. Gaugh.