Frequently Asked Questions

How is cosmetic dentistry different from general dentistry?

General dentistry treats and maintains the health of your teeth and gums, with an overall focus on oral hygiene. A cosmetic dentist focuses on the aesthetic appearance of your teeth, with the goal of a healthy, aesthetically pleasing, and beautiful smile.

What are the benefits of cosmetic dentistry?

Tooth loss can make speaking and chewing difficult and social interactions more complicated. Cosmetic dentistry can replace damaged teeth with new ones that function as they should. In addition to practical benefits, cosmetic dentistry can give you a great smile, which can help boost your self-confidence and self-esteem.

Does dental insurance cover cosmetic dental procedures?

Dental insurance may offset the cost of regular dental checkups but do not cover cosmetic procedures. We have financing options available so you can get the treatment you need without having to worry about upfront fees.

How long will it take to improve my smile?

It depends on your needs. It is possible to get a great smile with just a few visits (like with our All-on-4 dental implants). New technologies have made procedures faster and more effective than ever before; call us to schedule an appointment so we can discuss your goals.

How long will my new smile last?

Advances in dental implant technology have given us materials that will last for a long time, maybe even a lifetime. With the right care and regular checkups, your cosmetic dental restorations can last for years.

What are veneers and how are they different from bonding teeth?

Porcelain veneers and bonding teeth are both used to fix cosmetic issues like chips, discoloration, cracks and poor alignment. Porcelain tooth veneers are a permanent solution that look very similar to natural teeth. Bonding uses a composite resin, which is molded and polished to match your natural teeth. Porcelain veneers tend to last longer than bonding and are more stain-resistant.

What are dental implants and how long does the process take?

Dental implants are a long-lasting and natural-looking alternative to bridges and dentures. Dental implants look, feel and function like natural teeth and can help give you a beautiful, healthy smile. The length of the process will depend on each individual’s needs and can be determined after an initial exam with Dr. Donnelly or Dr. Turner. For those looking for an immediate solution, the All-on-4 or “Teeth in One Day” treatment gives you functioning and natural-looking dental implants in just one visit.

What kind of periodontal treatments do you offer?

Periodontal procedures address the overall health of your teeth and gums and can be used to treat gum disease, plaque and calculus deposits below the gum line. We offer non-surgical procedures like scaling, root cleaning and other therapies, as well as periodontal surgery to treat more serious issues.

What is dental reconstruction?

Dental reconstruction replaces and repairs damaged, broken or missing teeth through procedures such as dental implant restoration, dental bridge placement, full mouth reconstruction and dental crown placement, among others. Reconstruction dentistry is one of our specialties.

How does the Invisalign® treatment process work?

Invisalign straightens your teeth using clear aligners, which gently shift your teeth into place. The aligners can be removed for meals and teeth brushing, making them very convenient and easy to use.

Who is a good candidate for Invisalign?

Invisalign corrects a number of issues ̶ ranging from mild to severe ̶ including crooked or protruding teeth, overbite and underbite, malocclusion, crowding and gaps.

How is Invisalign different from braces?

Invisalign uses aligner trays, instead of metal brackets and wires, to straighten teeth. The aligners are typically much more comfortable than braces, which can irritate the teeth and gums. Perhaps the greatest difference is how it looks ̶ Invisalign is practically invisible, so others may not even notice you are straightening your teeth!

What is digital smile design?

Digital smile design, also known as DSD, uses state-of-the-art videography and technology to make an analysis of a patient's dental and facial structure. This makes you the co-designer of your own treatment by sharing objectives, expressing your desires and expectations with the restorative team.

I’m very anxious about dental procedures. Can you help?

We want all of our patients to be relaxed and comfortable during their time with us. Dr. Donnelly and Dr. Turner are leading cosmetic dentists and offers sedation dentistry for those who have anxiety or fear about dental procedures.