Cosmetic Dentistry In Oak Park
Helping you find your perfect smile
Missing teeth, dental injuries, and tooth decay are not the only reasons to see a dentist. If you want to return the shine to your smile, or correct any misaligned teeth, cosmetic dentistry may be the right option for you. Our Oak Park dental team offer a range of safe, professional cosmetic treatments. You can smile with confidence in only a few short appointments.
Veneers
If you’ve accumulated minor chips, cracks and damages to your teeth, there’s no need to allow them to affect your smile. Veneers can cover all forms of damage, while flawlessly matching the size and shape of your natural teeth. These thin shells are stain and damage resistant, and available in both porcelain and composite resin. Veneers require minimal preparation and can be applied in a few short appointments. Your journey to a fresh, beautiful smile starts with us.
Teeth Whitening Treatments
Are you worried that your smile has become dulled or stained over time? Common beverages like coffee, pop, and wine can stain your teeth. At the office of Dr. Murphy, we offer take-home whitening trays that can take the years off your smile. You can whiten your teeth from the comfort of your own home, and you will be entirely in control of the process. Call us now to make an appointment, and get your brightest smile yet.
Bonding, Reshaping, Contouring
Not every tooth grows in perfectly. For every misshapen or irregular tooth, we offer a number of cosmetic treatments that can reshape the tooth to match your smile flawlessly. Our bonding treatment uses a protective resin to add a new layer to your tooth, increasing the surface area to match your existing teeth. Reshaping and contouring make use of our state-of-the-art technology to finely remove excess or abnormal tooth structure, leaving the rest of the tooth intact. Together, these procedures help mold the tooth into a natural-looking shape.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is cosmetic dentistry covered by dental insurance?
The coverage of cosmetic dentistry by dental insurance is a commonly asked question and one that doesn’t have a simple yes or no answer. It primarily depends on your specific insurance plan and the nature of the dental procedure.
Typically, cosmetic procedures are those that are not medically necessary but are performed to improve the appearance of your smile. These can include treatments like teeth whitening, porcelain veneers, and cosmetic bonding. Most dental insurances do not cover these types of procedures as they are considered elective.
However, there are instances where a procedure may have both cosmetic and functional benefits. For example, dental crowns not only improve the appearance of a damaged tooth but also restore its function. In such cases, your insurance may cover part or all of the procedure’s cost.
It’s always best to check with your insurance provider to understand what is and isn’t covered under your plan. At Murphy Dental Group, PLLC, our team can also help you navigate your insurance benefits to maximize your coverage.
What are the benefits of using Lumineers® brand porcelain veneers?
Benefits of Lumineers® Porcelain Veneers
When you’re considering porcelain veneers to elevate your smile, Lumineers® stand out for several good reasons. These ultra-thin veneers are crafted to look and feel remarkably natural, offering a brighter, straighter appearance for teeth that are chipped, discolored, or slightly misaligned.
Some of the main advantages include:
- Minimally invasive: Unlike traditional veneers, Lumineers® require little to no removal of natural tooth structure, which means a more comfortable procedure and greater preservation of your healthy teeth.
- Natural look and feel: Their thin, translucent design closely mimics the shade and sheen of real enamel, seamlessly blending with your other teeth.
- Durability: Lumineers® are resistant to stains and everyday wear, so you can enjoy a lasting, radiant smile with simple at-home care.
- Quick transformation: Most cases can be completed in just a couple of visits, with immediate, noticeable results.
Choosing Lumineers® is a popular option for patients looking for a gentle, yet effective, way to achieve the smile they’ve always wanted. Whether your goal is to mask imperfections or refresh your overall look, these veneers may be the simple solution you’ve been searching for.
Are there before and after examples of crowns and veneers?
Absolutely! Seeing is believing when it comes to cosmetic dentistry. Many patients want to know what kind of transformation is possible with crowns and veneers. Our practice features a gallery of real patient results showcasing dramatic improvements—from chipped or discolored teeth to stunning, natural-looking smiles.
You’ll find before and after photos demonstrating:
- Porcelain veneers correcting uneven or stained teeth
- Dental crowns restoring broken or worn teeth to their original shape and color
- Smile makeovers that combine multiple treatments for a truly radiant result
If you’d like a closer look at these examples, just ask during your consultation. We’ll be happy to walk you through our portfolio and discuss what’s possible for your specific needs. Seeing real-world results can help you feel confident in choosing a cosmetic treatment that’s right for you.
What is the process and benefit of in-office professional teeth whitening?
Professional Teeth Whitening: Process and Benefits
Professional in-office teeth whitening is one of the quickest and most effective ways to brighten your smile. The process begins with a careful assessment of your current tooth shade by our team, followed by the application of a high-concentration whitening gel. This gel, often activated by a specialized light, breaks down stubborn stains caused by foods, beverages, or everyday wear.
Compared to over-the-counter options, in-office whitening treatments use professional-grade solutions that can lift your tooth color by several shades in a single visit. The benefits are clear:
- Quick results: You can see a noticeable difference after just one appointment.
- Safe application: Our dental professionals ensure your gums and other tissues are protected throughout the procedure.
- Even, natural-looking results: The whitening is customized to your smile, avoiding the “one-shade-fits-all” look.
If you’re looking for a fast, reliable solution to restore your teeth’s natural brilliance, in-office teeth whitening could be the answer.
What are dental bridges and how do they replace missing teeth?
A dental bridge is a reliable solution for filling the gap left by one or more missing teeth. This restoration consists of one or more artificial teeth, anchored securely by crowns attached to the natural teeth on either side of the space. The result? A seamless, natural-looking smile and restored function for chewing and speaking—without the fuss of removable dentures.
Dental bridges are custom-made to match the shape, size, and color of your existing teeth, blending right in for a flawless finish. With modern materials and techniques, they can last for many years and help prevent your other teeth from shifting out of position. If you’re missing a tooth (or a few), a dental bridge is a time-tested way to regain your confidence and maintain your oral health.
What is the difference between a cosmetic dentist and a regular dentist?
The primary difference between a cosmetic dentist and a regular dentist lies in their focus areas. A regular dentist, also known as a general dentist, focuses on the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of oral health issues. They perform routine check-ups, cleanings, fillings, and other procedures to maintain overall oral health.
On the other hand, a cosmetic dentist like Dr. Brandon Murphy specializes in procedures designed to enhance the aesthetics of your smile. While they also address oral health issues, their primary goal is to improve the appearance of your teeth, gums, and overall smile. They offer a range of services, including teeth whitening, veneers, bonding, and more.
It’s important to note that both types of dentists undergo the same basic dental education. However, cosmetic dentists pursue additional training and education in cosmetic procedures to hone their skills in this specialized field.
Is cosmetic dentistry healthy?
Cosmetic dentistry, when performed by a skilled and experienced dentist like Dr. Brandon Murphy, is not only safe but can also contribute to your overall oral health.
While the primary goal of cosmetic dentistry is to enhance the appearance of your smile, many procedures also offer functional benefits. For example, dental implants replace missing teeth, restoring your smile’s aesthetics and preventing bone loss in the jaw. Similarly, dental crowns protect a damaged tooth from further decay, in addition to improving its appearance.
Moreover, having a beautiful smile can boost your confidence and self-esteem, contributing to your overall well-being. However, it’s crucial to maintain good oral hygiene and regular dental check-ups to ensure the long-term success of your cosmetic dental treatments.
At Murphy Dental Group, PLLC, we prioritize both the health and aesthetics of your smile. We offer a wide range of cosmetic dentistry services in Oak Park, ensuring that each patient receives personalized, high-quality care.