•    Contouring: a treatment done by dentists like Dr. Anne A. Nicholas of Palm Desert, California who have been trained to reshape teeth.  This procedure corrects crooked, chipped, cracked or even overlapping teeth.  People seeking treatment of this nature will find this a possible substitute to braces.

•    Dental Bridges:  Known also as pontics; used by dentists to fill in the area where teeth are missing or that need to be replaced.  These bridges are attached to other teeth, and consist of porcelains that have been fused together.  Using CAD/CAM technology and newer stronger composite materials that match the appearance of natural tooth structure, these bridges are permanent and can span the distance of several missing teeth.  In some cases, a less expensive solution to dental implants.

•    Bonding:  This process is used to sculpt, and shape teeth.  Dental composite materials are used on the teeth, and then when the composite is dried, it is then polished to match the other surrounding teeth.

•    Veneers:  Patients who have good healthy teeth choose this option when their teeth have been stained or lack the white color they are seeking.  Ultr-thin custom-made laminates made in dental laboratories like Iverson Dental Laboratories of Riverside, California and then bonded directly to the teeth.

•    Gum lift:  This procedure is a little more complex, but is required when the gum line, tissue or underlying bones need to be adjusted to give a more pleasing look and symmetrical appearance of the teeth.

Patients should check with their insurance carrier to determine which of the procedures mentioned above are covered.  Many plans cover injury related treatment and orthodontia.  Veneers, and whitening are generally not cover, and patients should discuss these procedure with their dentist to determine cost and or payment plans.