Monthly Archives: November 2015

Cosmetic Dentistry, Porcelain Veneers

Is there a difference between an AACD dentist and not?

I want to get porcelain veneers. Someone told me i should only use an AACD dentist. What is the difference between a regular dentist and an AACD dentist?

Jennifer P. – Alabama

Jennifer,

The AACD stands for the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry.  It is an organization for dentists interested in cosmetic dentistry. Any dentist can join the AACD, but that doesn’t necessarily make them a great cosmetic dentist.

What your friend was probably referring to (and wisely I might add) is someone who is accredited with the AACD.  Accreditation is a much higher standard.

What most patients don’t realize is that there isn’t a recognized specialty in cosmetic dentistry. Any general dentist can call themselves a cosmetic dentist.

If you want a procedure, such as porcelain veneers, you want to make sure your dentist not only knows the technical aspects of the procedure, but has an artistic eye. Someone who’s reached accreditation has both.

This blog is brought to you by Tulsa Cosmetic Dentist Dr. Jerome Cha.

Teeth Whitening

Is teeth whitening temporary?

I was thinking of getting my teeth whitened, but  friend told me that it’s only temporary. You pay a lot of money and it whitens your teeth, but then after a while it wears off.  Is it worth the money?

Lucas Q. – California

Lucas,

If you get professional teeth whitening done by a dentist, then the whitening is permanent. It completely oxidizes your teeth.  The stains that were there will be permanently gone.

Maybe what your friend is referring to is to is the fact that your teeth can develop new stains. There are things like coffee, tea, and certain fruits  that are very staining of your teeth.

If you keep up with your oral hygiene, it should last quite a while. However, if you like staining beverages and foods you may occassionally need a refresher.

If you keep your whitening trays,  your dentist can provide you with gel for a top up that won’t cost you hardly anything.

This blog is brought to you by Tulsa Cosmetic Dentist Dr. Jerome Cha.