Dr. Stephen Hoard is a family dentist in New Bern and one of the leading cosmetic dentists in North Carolina. In addition to his office, Dr. Hoard teaches fellow dentists the principles of cosmetic and restorative dentistry. Dr. Hoard offers several cosmetic dentistry treatments in his New Bern, NC dentist’s office. He can help you choose the procedure that fits your goals and budget.
Cosmetic dentistry is not just about creating a pretty smile. These treatments can restore your oral health and bite function. We believe that “form follows function.” A healthy and balanced masticatory system is essential for naturally beautiful results.
Cosmetic Dentistry in New Bern, NC
Your smile’s comfort is just as key, if not more so, than its appearance. Cosmetic dental problems are often the result of decay, wear, and age. Sometimes, an imbalance in the occlusal (bite) system can cause teeth to wear prematurely or unevenly. Tooth damage can make everyday life more uncomfortable. Biting and chewing with broken or worn teeth causes pain and discomfort.
Living with these dental problems can also decrease your confidence in your smile. In social situations, you may hide your laugh or smile because of cosmetic dental problems. Receiving professional care can help you get the smile you’ve always wanted.
Before any cosmetic treatment, we must address your health or functional concerns to ensure effective treatment. Then, we will begin cosmetic dental treatment that matches your budget, goals, and dental concerns.
Learn More About Our Cosmetic Dental Procedures:
What is a Smile Makeover?
A smile makeover uses multiple cosmetic dentistry services to restore smile aesthetics. We may recommend a smile makeover if you have multiple cosmetic concerns. As with other treatments, we will evaluate your smile beforehand. We will also recommend the order of your cosmetic treatments once we examine your smile. A smile makeover can treat stained teeth, tooth damage, gaps between teeth, and other cosmetic dental problems.
Providing Cosmetic Dental Care in New Bern, NC, With Dentist Dr. Hoard
Dr. Hoard meets each new patient with a comprehensive evaluation. He examines the entire head, mouth, teeth, muscles, and joints during this examination. A precise diagnosis is crucial in creating a treatment plan.
Modern dental technology is important in cosmetic dentistry. Dr. Hoard will take 2-D and 3-D images of the smile and create models to demonstrate the proposed treatment results. Dental impressions and software help also help you visualize your smile. Dr. Hoard uses this technology to create a treatment guideline. He will follow this guideline to help makeover your smile.
Dr. Hoard takes a multidisciplinary approach to complex cases. He has developed a relationship with a periodontist, Jeffery Thomas, DDS, and an orthodontist, Todd Rankin, DDS. With this team approach, Dr. Hoard can maximize results for his patients and ensure a high level of care.
Cosmetic Dentistry FAQs
Learn more about cosmetic dental treatment with answers to popular questions about cosmetic dentistry:
Who is a good candidate for cosmetic dentistry?
A good candidate for cosmetic dentistry is anyone with aesthetic problems, often including:
- Tooth discoloration
- Excessive gaps between teeth
- Uneven gum line
- Misshapen or crooked teeth
Cosmetic dentistry can treat any aesthetic issues that affect oral health. Candidates for cosmetic dentistry must be in good overall health before treatment. They must also have realistic expectations regarding treatment.
How long does it take to recover from cosmetic dentistry?
The time it takes to recover from cosmetic dentistry can vary depending on the procedure. Generally, the recovery period for cosmetic dentistry treatments is short and painless. You can usually return to normal activities within a few days.
Your dentist will provide specific instructions on caring for your teeth after treatment. Following their instructions will ensure the best results and a speedy recovery.
Does insurance pay for cosmetic dentistry?
Insurance coverage for cosmetic dentistry can vary depending on the type of procedure and your insurance provider. Most insurance companies will not cover purely cosmetic treatments. This is because most insurance companies consider cosmetic procedures elective or optional.
However, insurance may provide partial coverage if the treatment is medically necessary. Talk to your dentist and insurance provider to determine what type of coverage you may be eligible for.
What is the most popular cosmetic dentistry treatment?
The most popular cosmetic dental treatment is teeth whitening. Many people choose it because it’s a quick and easy way to make their smile look brighter. Teeth whitening can remove stains caused by coffee, tea, smoking, or aging. This treatment is popular because it can make a big difference in how your smile looks without being too expensive or time-consuming.
How painful is getting a dental implant?
Dental implant procedures are typically not very painful, but you can experience discomfort. The level of pain or discomfort you could experience will vary from patient to patient. Most patients report mild to moderate discomfort during the procedure.
Your dentist will help you manage this with local anesthesia, sedation, or pain medication. After the procedure, some patients may experience mild swelling and discomfort. Your dentist will usually recommend over-the-counter pain medication. The pain and discomfort should subside within a few days to a week after the procedure.
How long do porcelain veneers take to put on?
You can receive porcelain veneers in two or three appointments. Veneer treatment time can take anywhere from two to three weeks. During the first appointment, your dentist will clean and shape your teeth. Then, they will take dental impressions to create custom veneers.
You will return to the office once the veneers are complete. On the second visit, the dentist will check the fit of the veneers and bond them to your teeth. The final step is polishing the veneers for a natural-looking finish.
Is tooth bonding permanent?
Tooth bonding is not permanent, but it can last a long time with proper care. The bonding material, usually resin, can stay in place for several years, typically between 3 to 10 years, depending on how well you take care of it.
Over time, it may wear down, chip, or stain, so you might need to have it touched up or replaced. Bonding is a good option for minor repairs, but it’s not meant to last forever like some other dental treatments. In fact, bonding is a great option if you want easily reversible cosmetic treatment.
How to prepare for a teeth whitening session?
Before starting a teeth whitening session, talk to your dentist about your overall health. Tell them of any preexisting dental conditions. You should also brush and floss your teeth thoroughly before beginning the process. Your dentist may suggest changing your diet for a few weeks before the treatment to avoid staining from certain foods and beverages.
You may need additional preparations if you wear braces or have dental restorations. We may ask you to remove your orthodontic appliances or seek temporary replacements for the best results. Whitening treatment cannot brighten these appliances.
Why Choose Dr. Stephen Hoard?
Dr. Hoard has years of experience in restoring smiles with cosmetic treatment. Whitening teeth, crafting porcelain veneers, or providing tooth bonding not only restores teeth but improves tooth and gum health.
Getting the smile you’ve always wanted is easier than ever. Contact us to learn more about cosmetic dentistry in our New Bern, NC office and to schedule your dental consultation.
Additional dental services that we offer.