8894 Stanford Blvd Suite 200 Columbia, MD 21045-5162

Current Patients (410) 730-4674

New Patients (410) 415-9013

Cosmetic Dentistry Q&A

Do you want a brighter smile? Are you looking for a dental treatment to address your crooked teeth? At Howard County Smiles, Dr. Ray Becker offers cosmetic dentistry services to patients in Columbia, MD. Addressing cosmetic problems is not just a way to improve the smile’s appearance. Cosmetic dentistry may address discolored teeth, dental injuries, and misaligned bites. Dr. Becker and his dental team work with patients to meet their cosmetic goals with treatment within their budget.

cosmetic dentistry in Columbia, MD

Cosmetic Dentistry FAQs

Are you interested in learning more about cosmetic dental care? Read answers to questions that our patients commonly ask about our cosmetic dentistry services:

What are the benefits of Invisalign treatment?

Invisalign uses clear, discreet aligners to straighten crooked teeth. These aligners are removable so that patients can eat, drink, brush, and floss without metal brackets or wires in the way. Unlike traditional metal braces, patients do not need to visit the orthodontist for routine adjustments. We will provide patients with their aligners and check in on their progress, but they will not require changes to their aligners.

How does CEREC® work with dental crowns?

Chairside Economical Restoration of Esthetic Ceramic (CEREC) is a dental technology that uses computer imaging and milling machines to provide easy and efficient crown treatment to our patients. In addition, we can design and create dental crowns in our office with this technology. First, we take scans of the mouth which create 3-D images of the teeth. Then, we send these images to the machines which produce the dental crowns. Because we use CEREC, patients can receive customized crowns in a shorter amount of time.

What are the differences between porcelain veneers and dental bonding?

Although dental veneers and tooth bonding treatment treat similar problems, they have some differences. Veneers are thin porcelain ceramic shells that we bond to the front of the tooth enamel. Tooth bonding treatment uses biocompatible material to cover prepared teeth, including chips or cracks in teeth. Bonding treatment may be a quicker and less costly treatment for small imperfections. However, dental veneers are a more permanent option.

How do I know if I need Invisalign?

Some patients may only have one or two crooked teeth that do not impact the health of their smile. However, multiple crooked teeth contribute to an uneven bite. Patients with crooked teeth are also more prone to developing gum disease or cavities because it can be difficult to clean between their teeth. An uneven bite may also contribute to TMJ disorders. If you are an adult who has mild to moderately crooked teeth and wants an alternative to braces, Invisalign can help.

Schedule a Dental Consultation

Do you want a straighter, brighter smile? Receive cosmetic dental care today. If you are a new patient, call (410) 415-9013. Current patients may call (410) 730-4674. You may also request a dental appointment with Dr. Becker on our website. Do you have any remaining questions for us? Let us know at your next dental visit, and we will be happy to help.