Cosmetic Dentistry in Seattle, WA

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THE ART AND SCIENCE OF SMILE DESIGN.

Porcelain Veneers

Porcelain veneers are among the most powerful tools in cosmetic dentistry. These ultra-thin, custom-crafted shells are placed on the front surface of your teeth. They can transform the look of your smile by refining the position, size, color, and shape of your teeth—all while preserving a beautifully natural glow and translucency.

Porcelain is also harder than tooth enamel, so it resists wear and staining. In fact, veneers do not discolor with age like natural teeth. All veneers are custom-fabricated and can provide permanent aesthetic results in just two appointments. Drs. Bryant and Pavinee are experts in the placement, design and coloration of veneers, so they can create results that look just like your natural teeth, only better.

Gum Lifts

If a patient has a “gummy smile,” we can create a more beautiful gum line by removing excess tissue. This is most often done by using laser or periodontal plastic surgery; a quick and very safe procedure that can be performed across the gum line or in isolated areas.
We also offer several other gum treatments designed to restore, regenerate or preserve healthy gum tissue. Gum lifts can be performed on natural teeth as well as teeth covered by crowns. If the surgery affects teeth with crowns, sometimes a procedure called “crown lengthening” is required before the gum lift. The procedure is fairly quick and simple, and can usually be done under local anesthesia. Not every patient is a good candidate for a gum lift, as it requires that they have healthy, firm gum tissue of a certain height or shape. In certain cases, other procedures may be performed to achieve the same effect.

Porcelain Inlays and Onlays

Inlays and onlays are ideal for repairing small cavities or replacing old mercury (amalgam) fillings. Traditional metal fillings can lead to cracks and darkening of the tooth over time. In contrast, inlays and onlays are crafted from tooth-colored porcelain or composite resin, making them blend seamlessly with your natural teeth and nearly invisible when placed.

Inlays and onlays also conserve more of your natural tooth structure, and when bonded in place, can strengthen the teeth by up to 75 percent. Perhaps best of all, they can protect teeth from further damage and the need for more extensive restorations.

Crowns are restorations that are similar to veneers, except they cover the entire tooth. They are used to fix teeth that are badly damaged or worn, have large cavities, or have undergone root canal therapy. Crowns are also used to strengthen weakened teeth. Adjacent crowns can be connected together to stabilize loose teeth.

Crowns can be constructed from various materials. No matter the material or construction technique, crowns can help restore the look, strength and bite function of natural teeth.

Composite Bonding and Fillings

Modern composite bonding resins are both durable and lifelike, giving us the ability to repair or enhance your smile in just one appointment. These advanced materials bond directly to the tooth’s surface and are perfect for fixing chips, worn edges, replacing old mercury fillings, or closing small gaps and cavities.

Additionally, composite bonding is sometimes performed as an alternative to veneers. The composite bonding process first involves preparing teeth for the application of bonding resin. Once the resin is applied, it is shaped and smoothed to achieve the desired look. Once the desired look is achieved, the resin is hardened by laser light. Thereafter, the composite bonding is buffed and polished. A composite filling is done in the same manner, except the resin is applied to the cavity rather than the surface of the tooth.

Teeth Whitening

Bright, white teeth are a key part of a radiant smile. At Seattle Specialty Dentistry, we offer both ZOOM!® Whitening and custom at-home night whitening options. These treatments effectively lift surface stains, yellowing, and discoloration that naturally occur over time.

ZOOM! Whitening is popular because it can safely whiten your teeth in about an hour. The process involves three steps. First, we apply a bleaching gel to your teeth, and then activate the gel with a special chair-side lamp that accelerates the whitening. This takes about 15 minutes and is repeated during a single appointment until the desired color is achieved. We carefully monitor the bleaching process to ensure your teeth look white — but not too white. We aim for an effect that’s beautiful, yet also very natural. If you don’t want to spend an hour in the dental chair, we offer an alternative option that’s so simple, you can literally do it in your sleep. We call it night whitening, and it’s a take-home kit with custom-fitted mouth trays, professional-strength dental bleach and easy-to-follow instructions. You apply the bleach to the mouth trays before bed, wear them while you sleep and wake up with whiter teeth. Not only does night whitening save time, it also allows you to control and maintain the shade of white you want. If you notice the brightness starting to diminish, you can use the trays to touch up your smile so it remains bright and beautiful. Though whitening is very effective for most patients, it won’t work on certain types of stains or discoloration. During your exam, we will be able to tell you if teeth whitening is right for you, and discuss your options for getting a dazzling smile.

Choosing the right dentist for your new smile will have a major impact on your life. It is essential to make this decision thoughtfully, setting aside any nervousness or biases. By relying on concrete evidence and logical reasoning, you can safeguard and enhance the most expressive and subtle aspect of your beautiful personality — your smile. This easily comprehensible eBook provides all the details necessary to determine whether cosmetic dentistry is the right choice for your well-being. Take a sneak peek at what awaits you in this invaluable informational guide:

  • Understanding the components of cosmetic dentistry
  • A step-by-step guide through the process
  • Exploring the benefits of cosmetic dentistry
  • Your options for cosmetic dental procedures
  • A helpful pricing guide
This informative eBook is brimming with the details you require. Don't hesitate! Get your free copy today!

Six Rules to Choosing the Right Dentist

FAQ

That depends on your unique goals and the current health of your teeth and gums. For instance, some people with discolored teeth may see great results with whitening, while others may need veneers, crowns, or other restorations if the stains are more resistant. The same goes for concerns like misalignment, gaps, or an uneven gum line. During your consultation, we’ll explore your options and create a personalized plan to help you reach the smile you envision.
The timeline varies depending on the procedure and the current state of your teeth. Many treatments—like ZOOM! whitening, veneers, composite bonding, gum contouring, and certain crowns—can be completed in just one or two visits. More complex procedures, such as orthodontics, implants, All-on-4, bridges, or dentures, may take several months. We’ll go over all the details and expected timelines with you during your consultation.
With proper care and good oral hygiene, many results—especially from crowns, veneers, and implants—can last for decades or even longer. Treatments like teeth whitening and gum surgery may require occasional maintenance or touch-ups to keep your smile looking its best.
Again, it depends on the procedure and the condition of your teeth. Many procedures, including ZOOM! whitening, veneers, composite restorations, gum lifts and some crowns, can be completed in two visits or less. Other procedures, such as orthodontics, implants, All-on-4, bridges, and dentures, can take months. We will discuss timelines with you during your consultation.
If the procedures (such as composite fillings or porcelain crowns) are replacing old or failing dental work, insurance may cover all or part of the cost. For procedures that are not covered, we offer convenient financing through CareCredit and ChaseHealthAdvance, and we also accept most major credit cards.