Cosmetic Dentistry — Crookston, MN
Creating a Flawless Smile You'll Be Proud to Share
If you hide your smile in photos or you’re just unhappy with the way your teeth look, Renu Dental can help. We offer a wide range of cosmetic dentistry services to give patients the picture perfect smiles they deserve. Look and feel your very best with advanced treatment from our trusted Crookston cosmetic dentist, Dr. Tiara Applequist. She offers a variety of options to meet any need, from simple teeth whitening to porcelain veneers, all in our comfortable and convenient dental office. Contact our team to find out more or schedule a cosmetic dentistry consultation today.
Porcelain Veneers
Patients who have a number of chips, cracks, uneven spaces between teeth, and stains may want to consider a simple effective treatment that can conceal any number of flaws seamlessly – porcelain veneers. Custom crafted from high quality materials, veneers are thin sheaths of porcelain that are fixed to the front surfaces of teeth essentially transforming patients’ smiles instantly. The process is simple. A small amount of surface enamel is removed to allow the veneer to lay flat within the natural smile line. We then capture impressions that are used to craft a custom veneer. In the meantime, we protect patients’ teeth with a temporary veneer. Once the final product is returned to our dental office, we exchange the temporary for the custom porcelain veneer.
Dental Bonding
For many patients, direct bonding is an alternative to porcelain veneers that doesn’t usually require the removal of tooth enamel to complete. Using tooth-colored composite resin filling material, we quickly and comfortably correct or conceal a number of flaws leaving patients with a flawless smile in just one visit. In most cases, direct bonding can be reversed if patients change their minds unlike porcelain veneers which are permanent. Most patients who choose direct bonding to repair their smiles don’t even need local anesthesia.
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At-Home Teeth Whitening Kits
Over the counter whitening products promise dramatic results, but they are rarely able to deliver even minor improvement to the appearance of patients’ smiles because the dose of whitening agent is too low and the one-size-fits-all application trays are not adequate to keep neutralizing saliva from counteracting the whitener. Our kits include custom crafted application trays and professional grade whitening gel that brightens smiles over the course of about two weeks of application.
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SureSmile Clear Aligners
Have you been struggling with crooked, crowded, or gapped teeth? Instead of wearing metal wires and brackets to straighten your smile, our team can offer SureSmile treatment to improve your bite pattern. These clear aligners are virtually invisible and removable, meaning you’ll be able to enjoy most of your normal eating habits throughout your process as long as you take them off beforehand. By wearing them, you’ll gradually shift your teeth into their proper and healthier positions. You might even be able to complete the treatment in as little as 12-18 months—which is 4 months quicker than traditional braces!
Learn More About SureSmile Clear Aligners
Spark Clear Aligners
Another way to straighten your smile without the hassle of traditional metal braces, we’re excited to offer Spark clear aligners here at our Crookston office. Made from advanced, BPA-free material that’s nearly invisible, these aligners are custom-made to address your specific orthodontic issues, whether you’re dealing with crooked teeth, bite issues, or other problems entirely. Of course, the best part is that the aligners are removable and don’t come with eating restrictions, which our patients tend to really appreciate!
Learn More About Spark Clear Aligners
Cosmetic Dentistry FAQs
Does Dental Insurance Cover Cosmetic Procedures?
Many patients have questions about the cost of their elected treatments, such as whether their dental insurance policy can be applied to help reduce out-of-pocket expenses. However, most plans are designed to promote proper prevention and repair, and don’t usually include services that are intended to improve your appearance more than your dental health.
But every policy is different and there may be exceptions, such as when a dental crown or veneers may be required to protect damaged teeth. It’s worth verifying the details of your coverage to understand what’s included. If you’re struggling to find the information or need help with insurance claims, please don’t hesitate to let us know. Our friendly staff in Crookston are familiar with the process and are happy to help you maximize any available benefits.
How Do I Know if I Need Cosmetic Dentistry?
Are you 100% pleased with the way your smile looks when you see your reflection in the mirror? If you’re feeling self-conscious about aesthetic concerns, such as chips, cracks, stubborn stains, or mild misalignments, you could potentially benefit from one or more cosmetic procedures.
However, that doesn’t mean these treatments are right for everyone. You must schedule a consultation with one of our accomplished providers to ensure you’re a good candidate before proceeding. We’ll also take the time to examine your mouth and address any pre-existing issues, such as cavities or gum disease, that might otherwise negatively affect the outcome of your chosen treatment(s).
Do Cosmetic Treatments Hurt?
Plenty of people feel nervous when it comes to dental work, and cosmetic procedures are no exception. But if you’re scared to schedule an appointment because you’re afraid the service might hurt, you can thankfully set your fears aside. Most of these treatments are considered minimally invasive because they’re incredibly straightforward and there’s no need for needles or numbing.
With that said, it’s possible to develop sensitivity after certain services, such as teeth whitening or thinning your enamel for veneers. Thankfully, this side effect is usually temporary and resolves itself within a few days, and can often be reduced with over-the-counter pain mends, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen.
How Long Does Cosmetic Dentistry Last?
The longevity of your recent cosmetic enhancements depends significantly on your unique circumstances and the services you underwent. Some, like teeth whitening, last about 6 months to 3 years. Others, such as porcelain veneers or tooth-colored dental bonding, can remain in great shape for 5 to 15+ years if cared for correctly.
You can usually help preserve the results by brushing and flossing to regularly remove plaque and bacteria buildup and by visiting our Crookston office every six months for a routine checkup and cleaning. You should also avoid consuming too many darkly pigmented, hard, crunchy, sticky, or acidic foods and beverages that can be harmful.