Cosmetic Dentistry in Northbrook, IL
A captivating smile can be your most powerful asset, influencing how others perceive you and your self-esteem. Cosmetic dentistry offers innovative solutions for those unhappy with the appearance of their teeth, from minor imperfections to complete smile makeovers. Modern techniques and materials allow for natural-looking results that enhance your unique features while preserving the health and function of your teeth.
At Skale Dental Professionals, we provide comprehensive cosmetic dental services to patients in Northbrook and throughout the North Shore area. Our team understands the profound impact a beautiful smile can have on your confidence and quality of life. We combine artistic vision with technical precision to create smiles that not only look stunning but also function perfectly for years to come.
Popular Cosmetic Dental Treatments
Cosmetic dentistry encompasses a variety of procedures designed to improve the appearance of your teeth and gums. From simple whitening treatments to complete smile reconstructions, these procedures can address virtually any aesthetic concern.
Invisalign Clear Aligners
Straight teeth contribute significantly to a beautiful smile, but many adults hesitate to pursue orthodontic treatment due to concerns about traditional metal braces. Invisalign offers a discreet alternative, using a series of clear, removable aligners to gradually shift your teeth into proper alignment.
The Invisalign process begins with a digital scan of your teeth, allowing us to create a customized treatment plan and preview your expected results. The clear aligners are virtually invisible when worn and can be removed for eating, drinking, and oral hygiene. Most patients complete their Invisalign treatment in 12-18 months, depending on their specific needs.
Unlike traditional braces, Invisalign requires fewer office visits and causes minimal disruption to your daily life. The smooth, comfortable aligners eliminate concerns about metal brackets irritating your cheeks and lips, making the orthodontic experience much more pleasant.
Porcelain Veneers
For dramatic smile transformations, porcelain veneers offer a versatile and long-lasting solution. These ultra-thin porcelain shells are custom-crafted to cover the front surface of your teeth, instantly concealing a wide range of imperfections.
Veneers can address multiple cosmetic concerns simultaneously, including:
- Discoloration resistant to professional whitening
- Chips and minor fractures
- Gaps between teeth
- Misshapen or undersized teeth
- Mild misalignment
The veneer process typically requires two appointments. During the first visit, we prepare your teeth by removing a minimal amount of enamel and take precise impressions. You’ll wear temporary veneers while your custom porcelain restorations are crafted. At the second appointment, we bond the permanent veneers to your teeth, instantly revealing your transformed smile.
With proper care, porcelain veneers can last 10-15 years or longer. Their stain-resistant surface maintains its bright appearance, and the porcelain mimics the light-reflecting properties of natural tooth enamel for truly authentic results.
Dental Bonding
For minor cosmetic imperfections, dental bonding offers an affordable, single-visit solution. This procedure uses tooth-colored composite resin to repair chips, close small gaps, lengthen teeth, or mask discoloration.
The bonding process begins with the application of a mild etching solution to create a slightly rough surface for better adhesion. We then apply the tooth-colored resin, carefully shaping it to achieve the desired result. A special light hardens the material in just seconds, and we finish by polishing the bonding to match the luster of your natural teeth.
Dental bonding typically takes 30-60 minutes per tooth and requires no anesthesia unless used to fill a cavity. While not as durable as veneers, bonding can last several years with proper care and provides immediate results at a lower cost.
Professional Teeth Whitening
One of the most requested cosmetic dental procedures, professional teeth whitening offers dramatic results for patients with extrinsic stains from coffee, tea, wine, tobacco, or normal aging. We offer both in-office and take-home whitening options to suit your preferences and lifestyle.
Zoom Teeth Whitening
Our in-office Zoom whitening system can brighten your smile by up to eight shades in a single visit. The procedure takes about an hour and involves applying a hydrogen peroxide gel to your teeth, which is then activated by a special light. The Zoom process breaks up stains and discoloration without damaging your tooth structure, revealing a noticeably whiter smile when you leave our office.
Opalescence Custom At-Home Whitening
For those who prefer to whiten gradually or maintain their results at home, we offer Opalescence custom whitening kits. We create personalized trays molded to fit your teeth precisely, ensuring even coverage and minimizing gum irritation. The professional-strength whitening gel delivers superior results compared to over-the-counter products, and you can whiten at your convenience while watching TV or before bed.
Gum Contouring
Sometimes, a “gummy” smile or uneven gum line can detract from otherwise beautiful teeth. Gum contouring (also called gum shaping) sculpts the gum tissue to create a more balanced, harmonious smile frame.
Using advanced laser technology, we can precisely reshape your gum line with minimal discomfort and a quick healing time. This procedure can expose more of your natural tooth surface if you have excess gum tissue, or it can even out an irregular gum line for improved symmetry.
Gum contouring is often combined with other cosmetic procedures like veneers or crowns for comprehensive smile enhancement. The procedure usually requires just one visit, and most patients experience minimal downtime.
Customized Smile Design
At Skale Dental Professionals, we believe cosmetic dentistry should enhance natural beauty while reflecting your unique personality. Our 3D smile design process allows you to preview potential changes before treatment begins.
During your consultation, we’ll discuss your goals, evaluate your oral health, and take photos and digital impressions of your current smile. Using advanced software, we can show you how different procedures might transform your appearance, helping you make informed decisions about your treatment plan.
This collaborative approach ensures results that exceed your expectations. Whether you’re seeking subtle enhancements or a dramatic transformation, our personalized approach delivers smiles that look natural and complement your facial features.
Invest in Your Smile at Any Age
Many of our patients find retirement is an ideal time to invest in cosmetic dental procedures they’ve been considering for years. With children grown and professional obligations often reduced, they can finally prioritize their own appearance and confidence. Retirement is a great time to invest because you still have decades of life left to enjoy your beautiful smile!
Take the First Step Toward Your Dream Smile
Cosmetic dentistry offers solutions for virtually any smile concern, from simple whitening to complete smile makeovers. The emotional benefits of loving your smile can be life-changing, boosting your confidence in both personal and professional settings.
At Skale Dental Professionals, our team is certified in craniofacial dental sleep medicine and brings artistic vision and technical excellence to every procedure. We pride ourselves on creating natural-looking, long-lasting results that our patients love. To explore your cosmetic dentistry options, call us at (872) 349-2038 or use our contact form to schedule a consultation.