Clear aligners, like Invisalign®, have become increasingly popular in recent years. Many patients find these "invisible braces" to be a more aesthetically pleasing alternative to traditional braces. Unlike conventional braces that use brackets and wires to move teeth, clear aligners utilize a series of custom-made mouthpieces crafted from clear plastic or acrylic.

One of the benefits of clear aligners is their removability, which makes it easier for patients to maintain good oral hygiene by brushing and flossing without obstruction. Treatment duration varies by individual, but on average, patients complete their aligner treatment within 10 to 24 months. Therefore, it's advisable to schedule a consultation well ahead of any senior photo sessions.

Clear aligners are most effective for teens and adults with mild to moderate orthodontic issues. Those with more severe conditions may need traditional braces for optimal results. Our experienced team is dedicated to creating personalized treatment plans tailored to each patient's unique needs.

Dental veneers, also known as dental porcelain laminates, are thin, tooth-colored shells that cover the front surfaces of teeth. Made from either porcelain or resin composite materials, they can enhance the color, shape, size, or length of your teeth. Veneers can be a great solution for teeth that are chipped, broken, discolored, irregularly shaped, misaligned, worn down, uneven, or spaced apart. Patients can choose to have veneers placed on one or multiple teeth.

These natural-looking enhancements do not require extensive reshaping of the teeth beforehand. Porcelain veneers are especially stain-resistant and compatible with gum tissue. By effectively replacing the outer layer of the teeth (enamel), veneers can create the appearance of a more symmetrical smile without actually shifting your teeth.

The process of getting veneers usually involves about three dental appointments. During the initial consultation, patients discuss their desired results, and the team at Urban Family Dental conducts a thorough examination to assess candidacy for veneers. The second appointment involves preparing the teeth, which includes reshaping the surfaces and taking impressions. Finally, during the third visit, the veneers are bonded to the teeth. This entire process typically spans a few weeks, so we recommend scheduling it a few months in advance of senior photo sessions.

In a dental bonding procedure, a tooth-colored resin is applied and hardened onto the teeth to enhance or restore your smile. This technique can address various cosmetic issues, such as chipped or cracked teeth, decay, discoloration, misshapen teeth, and receding gums. It can also help close gaps between teeth or make them appear longer. Many patients choose dental bonding as an alternative to amalgam fillings.

Dental bonding is one of the simplest, quickest, most affordable, and least invasive cosmetic dental options available. It requires minimal enamel removal and generally only necessitates anesthesia if it's used to fill a cavity, reshape the tooth, or repair a chip near the nerve. Preparation is minimal, and the team at Urban Family Dental ensures that each patient understands what to expect. The entire process typically takes about 30 to 60 minutes per tooth and can usually be completed in a single appointment.

Composite fillings, also known as resins, are tooth-colored fillings designed to protect small to midsize cavities from the pressure of chewing. They can be used on both front and back teeth due to their natural appearance. Additionally, composite fillings are considered safer than amalgam fillings, which are made from metal alloys that may contain mercury, although both types serve the same purpose. The process for applying composite fillings is relatively quick and easy, typically taking less than 30 minutes per tooth. Their ability to bond with the tooth structure enhances their support, and they can also be used to repair broken, chipped, or worn teeth.