Modern cosmetic dentistry offers a wide range of dental services to make sure your teeth stay healthy, function well, and look great.
Dr. Ray Becker with Howard County Smiles offers his patients cosmetic dentistry in Columbia, MD. Dr. Ray Becker believes that cosmetic dentistry is not just about a pretty smile- it can also boost your sense of confidence, self-esteem and improve overall oral health.
More than just a cosmetic dentist, Dr. Becker focuses on health concerns and functional problems, ensuring comfortable, long-lasting results. He will correct your underlying functional and health issues that contribute to the cosmetic dental concern. We can address almost any aesthetic flaw including:
- Conceal crooked teeth
- brighten teeth that are discolored, yellow, or stained
- Correct or conceal chipped teeth teeth
- Fix damaged teeth
- Conceal teeth that are too long or short
- Conceal teeth with gaps
- Replace missing teeth
Choosing a Cosmetic Dentist
Choosing a cosmetic dentist is an important decision. As a member of the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry (AACD), Dr. Becker is dedicated to offering the latest techniques and treatment options. He has extensive post-graduate training and experience in cosmetic dentistry.
He is dedicated to excellence in dentistry using the latest in treatments, techniques, and advanced materials for lasting results and the best possible experience for patients. We offer a full range of cosmetic services that can be used individually or in combination for a total smile makeover.
CEREC® Cosmetic: CEREC technology allows Dr. Becker to perform a complete smile makeover in just one day. Instead of waiting weeks until your restoration is fabricated in a dental lab, we are able to mill the restoration while the patient waits.
Porcelain Veneers: Veneers are a versatile cosmetic dentistry treatment that is used to improve the appearance of teeth. They can improve the appearance of stained, crooked, chipped, or gapped teeth as well as change the shape or length of teeth.
SureSmile®: The clear aligner system will gradually straighten teeth with invisible aligners. They are completely removable, allowing you to eat, brush, and floss as you normally would. The aligners will be switched out every week.
Tooth Whitening: Teeth whitening is a fast and easy way to instantly brighten a dull smile. Dr. Becker offers Sensational Smile® and Zoom® WhiteSpeed teeth whitening. He also offers Zoom DayWhite professional take-home teeth whitening for patients who prefer to whiten their teeth gradually at home.
Tooth Bonding: Bonding is used to fix minor dental health and cosmetic concerns. Using a tooth-colored, composite resin, Dr. Becker can sculpt it into the desired shape to hide many imperfections.
Dental Crowns: A dental crown is like a cap that fits over a tooth that is damaged, decayed, or unattractive. It will completely cover the tooth and protect it from further damage.
Dental Implants: Dental implants are the most natural tooth replacement option available. They actually replace a missing tooth at the root and can last a lifetime if cared for properly.
Cosmetic Dentistry: What to Expect
Cosmetic dentistry requires careful planning to ensure a natural-looking smile that enhances your overall health and appearance. Dr. Becker will take the time to listen to your needs and goals. He will conduct a thorough examination to help us identify underlying problems that can cause functional and cosmetic dentistry concerns.
Dr. Becker will then recommend the appropriate treatments that will meet your needs and goals after your personalized consultation and exam. He will create a treatment plan that is tailored to your unique smile, oral health concerns, and budget for a result that meets your expectations and also supports your long-term dental health.
Our dental exam typically includes:
- Digital dental x-rays
- Other diagnostic dental imaging
- Screening for gum disease, tooth decay, and oral cancer
- Occlusal analysis and examination of temporomandibular joints (TMJ)
Affordable Cosmetic Dentistry Near You
With all the advancements in cosmetic dentistry, getting the smile you always wanted is easier and more affordable than ever. Dr. Becker will help you decide which cosmetic dentistry treatments are right for you. He will take the time to thoroughly explain each procedure and what to expect with each one.
This will help you make sure you are well informed about all details including follow-up care, dental care options, dental financing, insurance, and scheduling.
Cosmetic Dentistry FAQs
Cosmetic dentistry can greatly improve your smile’s look and function. Read the answers to these commonly asked questions to learn more.
What’s the difference between general and cosmetic dentistry?
General dentistry focuses on preventative care. The treatment options treat small concerns in the mouth to minimize the risk of more serious dental problems in the future. Cosmetic dentistry focuses on the aesthetics of your smile. It aims to give patients an even, bright smile they’re proud of. However, many cosmetic dental treatments also benefit oral health and function.
Does my insurance cover cosmetic dentistry?
No, most dental insurance doesn’t cover cosmetic procedures. They’re seen as elective care for looks, not as necessary care for the health of your smile. Sometimes, insurance will cover dental bonding if it’s seen as a restorative need instead of just a cosmetic fix. We also offer an in-house dental service plan to help you save on certain cosmetic procedures.
Is cosmetic dentistry permanent?
No cosmetic dental treatment is permanent. Clear aligners are the closest to permanent, but you still have to wear your retainers to keep your teeth in that position. Solutions like porcelain veneers can last 10-15 years or longer with proper care.
Does cosmetic dentistry hurt?
No cosmetic treatment should cause you pain. When you move your teeth with SureSmile, you will feel soreness and discomfort as your teeth adjust to their new positions. Some cosmetic care can also cause tooth sensitivity, but that fades a few days after your procedure.
What’s the most popular cosmetic dental procedure?
Teeth whitening. No one can escape having discolored teeth in their life. Whitening is also non-invasive and fast, providing drastic results quickly. A single whitening session can brighten the teeth many shades practically overnight.
Am I a good candidate for cosmetic dentistry?
Many patients are eligible for cosmetic treatment. However, one of the biggest stipulations is ensuring oral health before we work on cosmetic fixes. We aren’t going to perform cosmetic treatments until things like cavities and gum disease are taken care of.
Schedule a Dental Exam & Consultation
Looking for a Columbia, MD area cosmetic dentistry office near you? Schedule an appointment with Dr. Ray Becker to learn how he can help you get the beautiful smile you deserve. More than just a cosmetic dentist, Dr. Becker focuses on health concerns and functional problems, ensuring comfortable, long-lasting results.