Kansas City Dentist Blog – Dr. Castaneda

Most patients today prefer tooth-colored restorations over the more traditional silver or amalgam fillings for their cavities. There are two main choices available for tooth-colored restorations – tooth-colored fillings and porcelain inlays/onlays. The type of restoration you need and your personal preferences will determine which option we will recommend for you.

Tooth-colored composite fillings are made out of a combination of resin, glass, and other materials. They provide you with a safe and durable restoration that closely resembles the make-up of your natural teeth. The resin is inserted into your tooth in layers to fill the cavity. A curing light is used to harden the material and bond it to your tooth. The bonding process strengthens your tooth and protects it from bacteria. The entire process will be completed in one visit to our office. [More]

Did you know that any general dentist can legally advertise as a cosmetic dentist? This may not sound like a big deal, but you may be surprised to hear that a general dental degree typically does not include any training in cosmetic dentistry. Why should you be concerned about this?

A great cosmetic dentist must have the eye and instincts of an artist as well as a solid background in functional dentistry. When it comes to enhancing your smile with procedures like porcelain veneers, crowns, bonding, and dental implants, you do not want to choose just any ordinary dentist. A qualified cosmetic surgeon must do years of post-graduate training in order to master the techniques necessary to enhance your smile in a way that not only looks good, but also natural. [More]