Whitening:  The number one cosmetic procedure in America has become one of the least invasive and most dramatic for many patients. The whitening of patient’s teeth has increased more than 300 percent in the past five years according the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry. Dr. Risbrudt and his team are all excited about the opportunity to help their patients with this procedure and they offer both the in-office one hour whitening that you see on “Extreme Makeovers” as well as the traditional method which requires approximately one to two weeks.

Porcelain Laminate Veneers:  Thin, strong and beautiful restorations that are placed on the front surface of the tooth. This process is very successful at changing the esthetic appearance of the tooth through a lab designed process. It is a porcelain veneer designed to cover discolorations, broken angles, unsightly spaces and old discolored fillings. It can remove the appearance of tetracycline stains, root canal treatments, etc. It is a popular restoration used frequently on “Extreme Makeovers” and its largest advantage is the conservation of tooth structure while beautifying the smile.

All Ceramic Crown:  Esthetic replacements for broken teeth. With the addition of Zirconia (3 times stronger than metal restorations) porcelain crowns can now be used for molars as well as front teeth. This restoration is used when the tooth is extensively broken down from trauma or root canal treatment. Dr. Risbrudt always errs with a conservative treatment approach and only utilizes crowns when a more conservative restoration is not in the best interest of the patient.

Porcelain-Fused-to-Gold Crown:  Gold still constitutes 60% of the esthetic restorations used in this country. Dr. Risbrudt has found that gold is best for strength and is better for a patient's health than the use of less expensive alloys, which often contain nickel or beryllium. Therefore, to protect the immune system from excess challenge, they use no base metals. It is always a good idea to ask your dentist exactly what understructure of their crowns is made of!

Cosmetic/Esthetic Bonding:  Used where conservative treatment is diagnosed; the chip of a small corner of the tooth, managing small spaces between teeth, etc. This can be accomplished with one visit and is cured with a light for composite material. This particular restoration is not as strong as a lab created procedure and can break down after 5-7 years depending on the patient’s personal hygiene and eating habits.

Tooth Re-Shaping and Re-Contouring:  There are often irregularities in the “smile zone” that can be corrected by simply selectively re-shaping/recontouring the teeth with diamond stones and polishing them.

Zoom! Whitening:  Our entire staff has been trained in the use of this marvelous esthetic tool. Zoom Whitening is the process that uses a high-intensity light to accelerate whitening of the teeth. It can affect a change of as much as six shades of difference in one two-hour appointment. The way to make the most of the process is to schedule your appointment shortly after your visit to the hygienist, so that the teeth are sparkling clean and free of any stains, etc.