Dentistry is the known evaluation, diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of diseases, disorders and conditions of the soft and hard tissues of the jaw (mandible), the oral cavity, maxillofacial area and the adjacent.
An Interview with Dr. Carlos A. Alonso on Cosmetic Dentistry
Dr. Carlos A. Alonso is a dentist and has answered some of the common questions Bizymoms visitors have about Cosmetic Dentistry.
Q. What is cosmetic dentistry?
A. Cosmetic dentistry is any dental procedure that is done to enhance a person’s teeth and smile.
Q. How important is your smile?
A. Your smile is one of the first things people see. Cosmetic dentistry can improve a person's overall appearance and self-confidence. A smile can help you both personally and professionally and can give you a more youthful appearance.
Q. Who is a good candidate for Cosmetic Dentistry?
A. Anybody who wants to improve their smile is a candidate for cosmetic dentistry. While there can be limitations within each type of procedure, communicating with your dentist about what type of cosmetic dentistry is best for you is important. It is crucial to know what all of your options are when looking to improve your smile.
Q. Is cosmetic dentistry worth the time and the cost?
A. Absolutely! It can be a very simple process to achieve a beautiful smile. I’ve had many patients that have come in, that are afraid to smile because they are embarrassed of their teeth. Nobody should ever be afraid to smile. The most gratifying part of my career is seeing people that are afraid to show their teeth leave the office happy and with a huge smile. It really can be a life-altering experience.
The cost of cosmetic dentistry can vary. Because there are so many procedures within cosmetic dentistry, it is hard to give a cost without evaluating each case individually. Typically, cosmetic dentistry can be done without a large investment in time.
Q. How long will my new smile last?
A. With good oral hygiene and regular cleanings, your smile can last the rest of your life.
Q. How quickly will I be able to complete my cosmetic dentistry treatment?
A. An initial comprehensive exam should be completed first to understand all aspects of your bite and smile as well as dental health. It is important to not overlook things such as gum disease and cavities when evaluating a smile. It is also vital to have good photographs of your initial smile. A thorough consultation is also necessary. Maybe the most important aspect of a successful cosmetic case is communication. Having the dentist and patient on the same page and with the same expectations is a must. After these steps are completed, you are ready to get started. A comprehensive exam can usually last 1½-2 hours and a consultation can be done as soon as the next day.
The amount of time required to complete a cosmetic case can be as quick as a couple of minutes to sometimes multiple appointments. Things like tooth recontouring can take as little as a couple of minutes. Whitening your teeth can sometimes be done at home or in about an hour in the office. Veneers and crowns usually take a couple appointments.
Q. What are some examples of cosmetic dentistry procedures?
A. Veneers, whitening, crowns, bridges, tooth recontouring, gum recontouring, and implants.
Q. How to contact Dr. Alonso if we have further questions?
A. You can call us at 281-778-8400 or e-mail alonsofamilydental@entouch.net. If you need further information our website is www.alonsofamilydental.com. You can also stop by. We are conveniently located at 8817 Highway 6 #600, Missouri City, TX 77459. We are on Highway 6 across from the Sienna Plantation HEB.
