Cosmetic dentist for biocompatible, conservative smile enhancement

Dramatic cosmetic improvement doesn’t have to mean dramatic alterations to the structure of your teeth. As a biological and cosmetic dentist in Santa Barbara, California, Dr. Cynthia Copeland of Whole Health Dentistry injects youthful vibrancy and health back into your appearance with:

• Conservative, non-traumatic, and safe treatments
• Techniques and procedures that fit well into your active lifestyle and busy schedule
• Sustained cosmetic enhancement that also supports long-term wellbeing

Conservative cosmetic dentistry

Generally, the less a tooth is altered, the better its function and the more natural the treated tooth looks and feels. We apply this philosophy toward both cosmetic and elective treatments and restorative treatments that are also cosmetic (look natural and attractive). For instance, we place such thin porcelain veneers that, in some cases, they are “prep-less”; no reduction of natural tooth structure is required. These ultra-thin veneers are placed on top of unaltered enamel without sticking out too much or appearing bulky. She also offers no-prep dental bonding (or “direct veneers”) as an alternative and is happy to discuss each option’s pros and cons during a consultation.

As it relates to our aesthetically appealing restorative treatments, Dr. Copeland will recommend tooth-colored composite resin fillings before dental inlays or dental onlays (partial crowns). Likewise, dental inlays or partial crowns will be recommended before full-coverage crowns. The idea is to reconstruct the tooth, restoring its appearance and functionality, and to do so in a way that preserves maximum natural tooth structure.

Biocompatible cosmetic dentistry

Dr. Copeland rebuilds or replaces teeth with biocompatible dental materials. These materials are designed to be compatible with natural, living tissues. They are appropriate for patients with allergies or sensitivities to metals. By their very nature, they are also cosmetic and blend in seamlessly with surrounding natural teeth. Examples of biocompatible dental materials include:

• Composite resin: a blend of plastic and glass fibers that may be used to “fill in” cavities or for dental bonding to disguise cosmetic imperfections (gaps, chips, irregular shape, worn-down teeth)
• Porcelain: a durable and stain-resistant dental ceramic whose properties replicate natural tooth enamel; it may be used to fabricate veneers as well as to create inlays, onlays, and full dental crowns
• Zirconia: a non-corrosive type of dental ceramic that may be a biocompatible and cosmetic alternative to implants made from titanium metal; zirconia dental implants placed in the jaw act as tooth roots to support a single tooth, several teeth, or a mouthful of replacement teeth

Additional treatments you can trust

Professional teeth whitening is also a conservative alternative to direct veneers (dental bonding) and indirect veneers (porcelain veneers) designed to cover up stubborn or very dark discoloration. Our methods safely and gently break up dark stain molecules deep in the teeth. As with other treatments, determining the best option for you will require an evaluation by Dr. Copeland. The techniques we use at Whole Health Dentistry also support a comfortable, stress-free experience and lasting wellness. For instance, Dr. Copeland is adept at light-touch laser dentistry and therapies such as pinhole restoration to heal damaged gums and complete other common treatments with minimal risks, such as post-treatment pain and bleeding.

Text +1 (855) 441-0001 to schedule your consultation at our Santa Barbara office.