25
Mar
FAQs about cosmetic dentistry … blending the science and art of dental care to support smiles that shine
Drs. Vanessa L. Quihuis and Anthony F.R. Quihuis blend the art and science of dentistry to restore and support smiles that truly shine, radiating health and youthful vibrancy. When searching for a “dentist near me in Ahwatukee and greater Phoenix, Arizona,” to enhance the appearance of your smile, it is essential to partner with an office that truly appreciates the importance of cosmetic dentistry procedures. Services to make over a single tooth or a mouth full of teeth are not an afterthought at Shine Dental Arts; they are a priority. We understand that smile transformations positively transform other aspects of our patients’ lives. It is rewarding to see our neighbors smiling proudly, laughing without holding back, and walking a little taller due to their renewed smiles.
What makes cosmetic dentistry different from other procedures at your office?
Strictly defined, true cosmetic dentistry procedures or services are recommended to resolve flaws or imperfections in the smile. These imperfections are not caused by underlying problems (such as tooth decay) that would then require another category or type of service known as “restorative dentistry.” Naturally, many of our treatments have a component of cosmetic dentistry to them. For instance, Invisalign® is an orthodontic treatment that straightens teeth and corrects bite imbalances. However, Invisalign® has an aesthetic/cosmetic element to it, too. The aligners that “do” the straightening and bite correction are made from clear or transparent plastic. What this means is that when you smile, the aligners fade into the background. They blend in seamlessly with your teeth. Our patients love how discreet this option is, but at the core, it remains an orthodontic treatment and not a strictly cosmetic service.
What cosmetic procedures do you offer?
There are two key services:
- Professional teeth whitening
- Dental veneers
For the first treatment, we provide in-office teeth whitening. This option allows our dentists to comfortably, safely, and effectively lighten yellow or stained teeth by up to five to 10 shades in just one visit to our office. As licensed and qualified dentists, we can access powerful whitening gels that are not available over the counter. For this reason, our team can get noticeable results when the OTC kinds of toothpaste, whitening trays, strips, and other products fail to make a noticeable difference in the color of your teeth.
For the second treatment, our dentists design and shape thin layers of composite resin or dental ceramic (porcelain), which are later applied to the front surfaces of teeth that are stubbornly stained and do not respond well to even powerful professional teeth whitening. This is just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to cosmetic concerns that may be resolved with veneers.
What are some other concerns that veneers “treat”?
Veneers may be applied and secured to cover up teeth with gaps or excess spaces between them. They can also disguise chips and other forms of wear and tear as long as the enamel damage does not warrant alternative treatments (such as crowns). There must be a sufficient amount of healthy enamel left for the veneer to “bond to,” so it is always essential for us to evaluate your teeth first. We must give you a clean bill of health before moving forward with any cosmetic or elective procedures. Our dentists have also had great success in using veneers to reshape, recontour, and resize overly pointy, jagged, worn-down, and other irregular teeth.
How can I get started?
Contact the Ahwatukee area office of Shine Dental Arts in Phoenix, AZ, today at (480) 893-3072 to schedule your consultation. During your visit, Drs. Vanessa L. Quihuis or Anthony F.R. Quihuis will examine your teeth, gums, and mouth. They will also discuss your preferences and goals for treatment, which may include a single, high-impact service or a combination of the many services mentioned here for a full “smile makeover.”
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Drs. Vanessa L. Quihuis and Anthony F.R. Quihuis
At Shine Dental Arts, Dr. Vanessa L. Quihuis and Dr. Anthony F.R. Quihuis combine their expertise and passion to deliver compassionate, high-quality dental care. Together, they create a welcoming environment where advanced techniques, innovative technology, and genuine patient relationships come first. Their shared commitment to continuing education ensures patients receive the benefits of modern dentistry with personalized treatment tailored to each individual. As a united team, they focus on building healthy, confident smiles through comprehensive general, cosmetic, and restorative care. At Shine Dental Arts, their collaboration reflects a deep dedication to trust, comfort, and excellence in every patient experience.