Aesthetic Dentistry
Aesthetic dentistry is a branch of dentistry that focuses on improving the appearance of teeth and enhancing the overall aesthetic appeal of the smile. It is often referred to as cosmetic dentistry, but the term “aesthetic” more accurately captures the combination of science and artistry that is required to achieve optimal results.
On one hand, aesthetic dentistry relies heavily on scientific knowledge and expertise. You Summit Dental experts have a deep understanding of the anatomy, physiology, and function of the teeth and gums.
We are particularly skilled in a range of dental procedures, including teeth whitening, veneers, crowns, bridges, and implants. Using only the the latest dental technologies and techniques, such as laser dentistry and digital imaging, we are able to help transform your smile like no one else.
Aesthetic dentistry requires a keen eye for beauty and an artistic sensibility. Aesthetic dentistry is often described as a fusion of science and art, with the ultimate goal of creating a smile that is not only healthy and functional but also beautiful and aesthetically pleasing.
While traditional dentistry focuses primarily on treating oral health problems, aesthetic dentistry takes a more holistic approach, recognizing the importance of a healthy, attractive smile in boosting self-confidence and improving overall quality of life.
Whether it’s brightening stained or discolored teeth, correcting gaps or misalignments, or replacing missing teeth with natural-looking implants, Summit Dental aesthetic dentistry offers a range of solutions to help you achieve the smile of your dreams. With the right combination of scientific expertise and artistic vision, we can transform even the most challenging dental cases into stunning works of art.
Custom Smile Make Over
A complete smile makeover is a comprehensive dental procedure that aims to improve the overall appearance of a person’s smile. The procedure involves a combination of cosmetic dentistry treatments that are customized to meet the unique needs and goals of each patient. A smile makeover can address a range of dental issues, including tooth color, tooth form, smile harmony, tooth alignment, smile line, gum line, spaces between teeth, tooth texture, tooth luminosity, tooth transparence, and missing teeth.
Tooth Color
Tooth color is one of the most noticeable aspects of a person’s smile. Teeth can become discolored due to a variety of reasons, including aging, smoking, and consuming certain foods and drinks. In a smile makeover, a dentist may use various whitening techniques to improve the color of the teeth. This may involve in-office bleaching, custom-made trays with whitening gel, or a combination of both.
Tooth Form
Tooth form and harmony between adjacent teeth are crucial elements in creating a natural-looking and beautiful smile in aesthetic dentistry. The form of the teeth refers to their shape and size, while harmony between adjacent teeth refers to how well they fit together and blend seamlessly. In order to achieve a natural-looking smile, the form and size of the teeth must be carefully considered to ensure that they are in proportion with each other and with the surrounding facial features. Additionally, the harmony between adjacent teeth is critical to creating a natural-looking and beautiful smile, as misaligned or uneven teeth can detract from the overall appearance.
Tooth Texture
The texture of the teeth is another important aspect of a beautiful smile. Rough, pitted, or uneven tooth surfaces can detract from the overall appearance of the smile. Conversely, too much smoothness can make the teeth look artificial and lack depth. In a smile makeover where the tooth texture is problematic, we at Summit Dental may recommend composite dental bonding or porcelain veneers to improve the texture of the teeth and create a smoother, more polished look.
Tooth Luminosity
The luminosity of the teeth refers to the degree of light reflection from the surface of the teeth. In a perfect smile, the teeth should have a relatively high degree of luminosity. This can be achieved through a variety of treatments, including teeth whitening and the use of composite or porcelain restorations. However, it’s important to note that in order to create a natural-looking smile, the luminosity of the teeth should be in harmony with the surrounding facial features and skin tone.
Smile Line
The smile line is an imaginary line that follows the curve of the upper teeth when a person smiles. In a perfect smile, the smile line is even and follows the contour of the lower lip. A well-defined and symmetrical smile line can enhance the natural beauty of the teeth and create a more aesthetically pleasing smile. In some cases, however, the smile line may be uneven or misaligned, which can cause the teeth to appear crooked or uneven. In aesthetic dentistry, the smile line can be adjusted using a variety of techniques, including orthodontics, veneers, and crowns. These treatments can help to create a more harmonious and balanced smile
Gum Line
The gum line is another important aspect of a beautiful smile. Excess gum tissue or uneven gum line can make the teeth appear shorter or uneven. A healthy and symmetrical gum line can enhance the natural beauty of the teeth and create a more aesthetically pleasing smile. In some cases, however, the gum line may be uneven or receding, which can cause the teeth to appear too long or too short, or create gaps between the teeth. In aesthetic dentistry, the gum line can be reshaped and contoured using a variety of techniques, including gum grafting, laser gum surgery, and veneers.
Spaces Between Teeth
Spaces or gaps between the teeth can be a source of self-consciousness for many people. Depending on the size and location of the gaps, a dentist may recommend a variety of treatments, such as bonding, veneers, or orthodontics. Bonding is a quick and affordable way to close small gaps, while veneers can address larger gaps and improve the overall appearance of the teeth.
Missing teeth
Missing teeth can have a significant impact on the overall appearance of a person’s smile. In aesthetic dentistry, the replacement of missing teeth is an important consideration in achieving a complete and balanced smile makeover. There are a variety of options for replacing missing teeth, including dental implants, bridges, and dentures. The choice of treatment will depend on a number of factors, including the location and number of missing teeth, the condition of the surrounding teeth and gums, and the patient’s goals and preferences. A skilled dentist will work with the patient to create a personalized treatment plan that addresses any missing teeth and restores the natural beauty of the smile.
The Buccal Corridor
The buccal corridor refers to the dark space visible between the corners of the mouth and the upper teeth when a person smiles. The size and shape of the buccal corridor can have a significant impact on the overall beauty of a person’s smile. A properly proportioned buccal corridor can enhance the appearance of the smile, while an overly large or small one can detract from its beauty. At Summit Dental, we use various techniques to help correct the buccal corridor, when it is necessary to do so. Treatment options include orthodontics or in some cases composite bonding or ceramic veneers.
Tooth Alignment
Proper tooth alignment can enhance the appearance of the smile by creating a balanced, symmetrical look. Crooked, misaligned, or crowded teeth can detract from the beauty of the smile and may cause a person to feel self-conscious about their appearance. We have various orthodontic treatments options, such as braces or clear aligners, to adjust tooth alignment and create a more aesthetically pleasing smile. Additionally, procedures such as veneers or bonding, can be used to further enhance the appearance of the teeth and create a more beautiful smile.
Vertical Dimension of Occlusion
The Vertical Dimension of Occlusion (VDO) is an important consideration in aesthetic dentistry as it plays a crucial role in determining the overall shape and appearance of the face. VDO refers to the distance between the upper and lower jaws when the teeth are in contact. When this distance is altered, it can cause a range of dental and facial problems, including tooth wear, muscle pain, and changes in facial appearance. In aesthetic dentistry, the VDO is carefully evaluated and adjusted as needed to create a balanced and harmonious smile that complements the natural shape and contours of the face. This may involve a combination of treatments, including orthodontics, restorations, and prosthetics, to achieve the desired VDO and create a beautiful, natural-looking smile.
Whitening
Teeth Whitening in Action
Depending on your specific goals, we may recommend in-office whitening treatments or supervised take-home kits.
In-office treatments
During your in-office whitening treatment, we will first thoroughly clean your teeth and gums to remove tartar and bacteria.
Once the teeth are clean, a protective shield will be placed over your lips and gums. Next, a peroxide-based gel will be carefully applied to your teeth. A special light will be used to intensify the effects of the whitening solution.
Typically this process will be repeated three or four times in 10 to 15 minute intervals. At the end of your appointment, you will have noticeably whiter teeth.
Take-home kits
Take-home teeth whitening kits allow you to safely and effectively whiten your teeth in the comfort and convenience of your own home. Additionally, for patients with extreme tooth sensitivity, the milder whitening solution used in these kits can reduce the risk of discomfort during treatment, while still allowing patients to achieve beautiful results.
To create your custom whitening trays, we will take impressions of your teeth. Once the trays have been fabricated, we will provide the whitening solution and specific instructions for at-home whitening.
Candidates
Teeth whitening is a safe and effective treatment, suitable for most patients who are in good health with no periodontal disease, caries or issues such as bruxism (teeth grinding). Patients should be aware that teeth whitening cannot lighten dental restorations, and is not usually effective for intrinsic stains that occur in the deeper layers of the tooth.
Teeth whitening is not recommended for patients 16 years old and younger, or women who are pregnant or nursing.
If you are not a candidate, we can work together until you are ready for teeth whitening, or provide alternative treatment options better suited for your specific dental needs!
What causes tooth discoloration?
Dental stains can be either intrinsic or extrinsic. Stains that are intrinsic are internal, meaning the dentin (the tooth’s bony tissue) darkens or develops a yellowish tint that shows through the enamel.
Extrinsic stains, on the other hand, occur when the enamel of the tooth is discolored. These surface stains are more receptive to teeth whitening treatments.
Some common causes of staining and discoloration include:
- Tobacco use
- Highly-pigmented or acidic foods and beverages, such as berries, wine, tea, coffee, and cola
- Certain medications, such as tetracycline and doxycycline
- Some amalgam restorations, such as those containing silver sulfide material
- The natural aging process
- Genetics
- Trauma to the tooth
Teeth whitening can provide long-lasting results. To help maintain your newly whitened smile, you should break habits such as tobacco use, and undergo regular teeth cleanings every six months. We can also provide touch-up whitening treatments at home or in the office as needed.
White Spots
Dental white spots are areas on the teeth that are whiter or lighter in color than the surrounding tooth structure. These white spots can be caused by a variety of factors, including excessive fluoride exposure, poor oral hygiene, developmental disorders, infections and trauma to the teeth. White spots may also occur following orthodontic treatments.
Icon Infiltration
Icon Infiltration is a non-invasive treatment that involves applying a resin to the surface of the teeth to fill in the pores of the enamel and reduce the appearance of white spots. The advantage of Icon Infiltration is that it is a non-invasive treatment that can be completed in a single visit to the dentist. It is also more affordable than some other treatment options. However, it may not be suitable for more severe cases of white spots.
Tooth Whitening
Tooth whitening is a popular treatment option that involves using a bleaching agent to lighten the color of the teeth. It works by whitening not the white spot, but the surrounding teeth, which can have a masking effect. The advantage of tooth whitening is that it can improve the appearance of the entire smile, not just the white spots. However, it may not be effective for severe cases of white spots, and it can cause tooth sensitivity.
Enamel bonding
Enamel bonding involves the application of a tooth-colored resin to the surface of the teeth to cover up the white spots. The advantage of enamel bonding is that it is a relatively quick and easy procedure that can be completed in a single visit to the dentist. However, it may not be as long-lasting as other treatment options, and it may require replacement over time. For more information see above for “Whitening”.
Veneers
Veneers are thin shells that are placed over the surface of the teeth to cover up imperfections, including white spots. The advantage of veneers is that they are long-lasting and can improve the appearance of the entire smile, not just the white spots. However, they are a more invasive treatment option and are also in more expensive. For more information see below for “veneers”.
Microabrasion
Microabrasion is a minimally invasive procedure that involves removing a small amount of enamel from the surface of the tooth using an abrasive paste. The advantage of microabrasion is that it is a quick and relatively painless procedure that can be completed in a single visit to Summit Dental. However, it may not be effective for severe cases of white spots, and in some cases, can cause tooth sensitivity.
The Right Treatment For You
It’s clear that there are many different ways of treating white spots. At your consultation, we will inform you about which options are available for you. When more than one option applies, which is usually the case, we can discuss the advantages and disadvantages of each. As a general rule, we recommend starting with the least invasive, least expensive approach. If that doesn’t work, then we can move onto the next option. To avoid increased expenses, if the first option did not succeed, we will deduce the cost from the final bill. This way you will always get the best option, without paying more! We do this because we believe that whenever possible, non-invasive and minimally invasive dental practices should be the rule, not the exception!
Veneers
Dental veneers are thin, custom-made coverings that are luted on to the front surface of teeth to improve their appearance. They are made of extremely dense porcelain and are designed to mimic the natural color and shape of teeth.
Veneers can be used to address a range of cosmetic issues, including discoloration, chipped or broken teeth, gaps between teeth, and misshapen teeth.
One of the main advantages of veneers is that they can provide a significant improvement in the appearance of the teeth with minimal removal of tooth structure. This makes them a less invasive option than other cosmetic treatments such as crowns or implants. Veneers are also incredibly durable and very long-lasting.
A good candidate for veneers is someone who has cosmetic concerns with their teeth and who is in good overall dental health. They should have enough tooth enamel to support the veneers, and their teeth should be free from decay or gum disease. A consultation at Summit Dental can help determine if veneers are a suitable option for a patient.
The procedure for getting veneers typically involves several steps. The procedure varies depending on what specifically you are looking for, but in general it goes something like this.
1.) Consultation
We will always begin with a consultation to make sure that you are a good candidate and to best understand what you are looking to improve about your smile. This includes a medical history, clinical exam and discussion about what you are hoping to achieve.
2.) Impressions
We will take optical 3d impressions of your teeth. This will then be send out to our partner dental laboratory for a complete “wax up” of your veneers.
3.) Mock Up
The wax model is then transferred onto your teeth in the form a resin composite. This allows us to visualise your veneers and try them out before any commitment to treatment has been made!
4.) Preparation
Once you are sure that you are happy and comfortable with the shape and form of your new veneers, we will prepare the enamel for bonding. This is done by removing the minimal amount of tooth enamel required for treatment. We will take final impressions for the laboratory. We will then prep provisionals for you to wear while the lab makes your final ceramic veneers. Depending on the case complexity, the dental technician will often come to this appointment as well so that they can speak directly with you about what your ideal smile looks like!
5.) Fabrication.
The final impressions will be sent to the dental laboratory where the veneers will be custom-made. Once the veneers are ready, the dentist will place them on the teeth and make any necessary adjustments to ensure a proper fit and appearance. The process typically takes two to three visits to complete.
Materials Used
Veneers can be made from different materials, such as composite resin or porcelain. There are different types of ceramics involved in handmade stratified ceramics, including feldspathic porcelain, leucite-reinforced porcelain, and lithium disilicate porcelain, to name a few. Ultimately, the choice of the ceramic material will depend on several factors including, but not limited to your needs and desired aesthetic outcome as well our recommendation based on the particularities of your particular situation. Our expert laboratory techniciens are well versed in the different available materials as well on only use the absolute highest quality materials.
The role of the dental laboratory technicien
Dental laboratory technicians play a crucial role in the fabrication of dental veneers. Our technician will use the impressions to create a mold of the patient’s tooth, which will serve as a template for crafting the veneer. Our technician will then use the appropriate materials, such as porcelain or composite resin, and use specialized equipment and techniques to shape, sculpt, and color the veneer to match the patient’s natural teeth.
The technician will also perform quality control checks throughout the fabrication process to ensure that the veneer meets our rigorous specifications and the your needs. Once the veneer is complete, our technician will send it back to us for final placement.
Dental laboratory technicians are skilled professionals who play a vital role in creating custom dental restorations that look and function like natural teeth. Our partner dental laboratories are present right here in Geneva and all of your work is hand crafted locally!
At Summit Dental we believe that every patient should have all of the information possible in order to make an informed decision about what is best from them. While we believe that veneers are an excellent treatment option for most people, they may not be for everyone, and there are some potential disadvantages to consider.
Veneers can be expensive, and they are often not covered by dental insurance. While proper tooth preparation for veneers, when done correctly, is considered minimally invasive, it is still a non-reversible treatment. Additionally, veneers may not be suitable for individuals with significant dental issues such as decay or gum disease, as these issues need to be addressed before veneers can be placed. Lastly, while veneers do have an excellent life expectancy, nearly nothing in dentistry is permanent, and veneers are no different. It is important to know that it is possible to need to replace your veneers at some point in your life time. As a general rule, we expect your veneers to last between 10 and 20 years, depending on how well you maintain your oral hygiene, and other factors.
Crowns and Onlays
Dental onlays, crowns, and bridges are restorative treatments that can help to repair damaged or missing teeth. While direct restorations such as fillings are used to repair small to moderate-sized cavities, dental onlays, crowns, and bridges are used to treat larger areas of damage or missing teeth.
A dental onlay is a custom-made restoration that is designed to repair a tooth that has been damaged by decay or trauma. Unlike dental fillings, which are placed directly into the tooth, dental onlays are made in a laboratory and then bonded onto the tooth. Onlays can be made of a variety of materials, including porcelain, zirconium, and resin composite. Our incredible partner laboratory customise the restoration to match the color and shape of your natural teeth for a highly aesthetic result.
A dental crown, sometimes referred to as a cap, is a custom-made restoration that covers the entire tooth, from the gum line to the biting surface. Crowns can be made of a variety of materials, including porcelain and zirconia, and are custom designed to match the color and shape of the natural teeth for a highly aesthetic result. Crowns are commonly used to treat teeth that are severely decayed, broken.
A dental bridge is a fixed prosthetic device that is used to replace one or more missing teeth. Bridges consist of a pontic, or replacement tooth, that is anchored to the adjacent teeth using dental crowns. Bridges can be used to replace a single missing tooth or several adjacent missing teeth. Bridges can be bonded to one or more adjacent tooth or fixed onto a dental implant to help best restore your smile!
Unlike direct restorations, which can be completed in a single dental visit, dental onlays, crowns, and bridges require multiple appointments and involve the use of a dental laboratory. During the first appointment, the dentist will prepare the damaged or missing tooth by removing any decay or debris and reshaping it to accommodate the onlay, crown, or bridge. An impression of the tooth is then taken, which is used to create a custom-made restoration in the dental laboratory. A temporary onlay, crown, or bridge is placed over the prepared tooth to protect it until the final restoration is ready.
Once the final restoration is complete, the patient returns to the dental office for a second appointment, during which the temporary onlay, crown, or bridge is removed and the final restoration is bonded in place using dental cement. The dentist will check the fit, function, and appearance of the restoration to ensure that it meets the patient’s needs and looks natural and aesthetically pleasing.
Dental onlays, crowns, and bridges offer several advantages and disadvantages over other restorative options. In general though, what can be done in a laboratory is different than what can be done in a dental office. Each case is different and we will help you choose what is best for you, given the particularities of your needs!
Aesthetics and Orthodontics
Aesthetic dentistry and orthodontics are two closely related fields that work to improve the appearance of a patient’s smile. While they are different in their approach, they often complement each other in achieving optimal outcomes. In some cases, orthodontics can be used to provide a more conservative treatment, while in others, aesthetic dentistry can be used to enhance the results of orthodontic treatment.
Orthodontics is the branch of dentistry that deals with correcting irregularities in the teeth and jaw. It involves the use of braces, aligners, and other appliances to move teeth into the correct position. Orthodontic treatment can correct issues such as crowded or crooked teeth, overbite or underbite, and gaps between teeth.
Aesthetic dentistry, on the other hand, focuses on the appearance of the teeth and smile. It includes procedures such as teeth whitening, veneers, and bonding to improve the color, shape, and size of the teeth. Aesthetic dentistry can also address issues such as chipped or cracked teeth, gaps, and uneven or worn-down teeth.
While aesthetic dentistry and orthodontics are separate fields, they often work together to achieve the best results. For example, a patient with crooked teeth may require orthodontic treatment to straighten their teeth, but they may also desire aesthetic enhancements such as teeth whitening or veneers. Similarly, a patient who has had orthodontic treatment may benefit from aesthetic dentistry to perfect the appearance of their newly aligned teeth.
In some cases, orthodontics can be used to provide a more conservative treatment option than aesthetic dentistry. For example, a patient with a small gap between their front teeth may be able to achieve the desired result with orthodontic treatment rather than veneers, which would require removing some of the natural tooth structure.
At Summit Dental, we offer a range of options for both orthodontic treatment and aesthetic dentistry. We work closely with each patient to create a personalized treatment plan that addresses their specific needs and goals. Our team of orthodontists and aesthetic dentists collaborate to ensure that patients receive the best possible care and achieve the results they desire.
English (UK) 
Français