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carekitt@gmail.com (Carolyn Kittell) — Wed, 05 Mar 2025 07:35:57 GMT

How Much Do Veneers Cost

Wed, 26 Feb 2025 22:23:03 GMT

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How much do veneers cost? The cost of dental veneers varies based on the material, location, and the number of teeth being treated. On average, porcelain veneers cost between $900 and $2,500 per tooth , while composite veneers range from $250 to $1,500 per tooth . A full set of veneers can cost $15,000 to $40,000 or more , depending on the provider and customization.

What Are Dental Veneers?

Dental veneers are thin, custom-made shells placed over the front surface of teeth to improve their appearance. They are used to correct discoloration, chips, gaps, and slight misalignments , providing a whiter, straighter, and more uniform smile .

Veneers are often made from porcelain or composite resin and are bonded permanently to the teeth. They are a popular cosmetic dental solution because they offer a natural look, long-lasting results, and minimal maintenance compared to other treatments.

How Do Veneers Work?

The veneer procedure typically involves these steps:

Consultation & Examination – A dentist assesses your teeth and discusses your cosmetic goals.
Tooth Preparation – A small amount of enamel is removed to create space for the veneers.
Impressions & Customization – A mold of your teeth is taken, and custom veneers are designed.
Placement & Bonding – The veneers are fitted, adjusted, and permanently bonded to the teeth.

Veneers are considered an irreversible treatment since some enamel removal is necessary. However, they can last for years and significantly improve a person’s confidence and smile aesthetics.

Different Types of Veneers and Their Costs

There are three main types of veneers, each with different costs, durability, and application methods .

Sources: American Dental Association (ADA) , Cleveland Clinic , Healthline , Forbes Health

Porcelain Veneers

Porcelain veneers are the most commonly used type due to their durability and natural appearance .

Cost: $900–$2,500 per tooth.
Lifespan: 10–15 years with proper care.
Benefits:
Highly resistant to stains and discoloration.
Mimics the translucency of natural teeth.
Long-lasting with minimal maintenance.
Drawbacks:
Requires some enamel removal , making it irreversible.
Higher cost compared to composite veneers.

Porcelain veneers are ideal for patients looking for a long-term cosmetic solution with the most natural results.

Composite Veneers

Composite veneers are a more affordable alternative to porcelain but come with trade-offs in durability and aesthetics .

Cost: $250–$1,500 per tooth.
Lifespan: 5–7 years before they may need repair or replacement.
Benefits:
More budget-friendly than porcelain veneers.
Can often be placed in a single dental visit .
Requires minimal enamel removal , making it less invasive.
Drawbacks:
More prone to staining and discoloration over time.
Less durable than porcelain; may need frequent touch-ups.

Composite veneers are best for those who want a cost-effective, reversible option but are okay with potential repairs or replacements over time.

No-Prep Veneers (Lumineers® and Similar Brands)

No-prep veneers are ultra-thin veneers that require little to no enamel removal , making them a less invasive alternative .

Cost: $800–$2,000 per tooth.
Lifespan: 10+ years.
Benefits:
No tooth shaving required , preserving natural enamel.
Reversible in some cases.
A good option for patients who want a non-permanent solution .
Drawbacks:
Not as strong as traditional porcelain veneers .
May not be suitable for patients with severely stained or misaligned teeth .

Lumineers® and other no-prep veneers are ideal for patients looking for a minimally invasive smile enhancement but may not provide the same strength as traditional veneers.

How Much Do Veneers Cost in the United States?

The cost of dental veneers depends on the material, location, dentist expertise, and the number of veneers needed . On average, porcelain veneers cost between $900 and $2,500 per tooth , while composite veneers range from $250 to $1,500 per tooth . A full set of veneers (covering 6–8 teeth) can cost between $5,000 and $20,000 , while a full-mouth veneer treatment (16–20 veneers) can range from $15,000 to $40,000 or more .

Below is a detailed breakdown of veneer costs based on material and treatment scope.

Average Cost of Veneers in the U.S.

Sources: American Dental Association (ADA) , Healthline , Cleveland Clinic , Forbes Health , CareCredit

How Much Do Veneers Cost in Denver and Colorado?

Veneer prices in Denver and throughout Colorado are comparable to the national average. However, factors like location within the state, dentist reputation, and demand for cosmetic dentistry can slightly affect pricing.

Average Veneer Costs in Denver & Colorado

Compared to major cities like Los Angeles or New York , Denver’s veneer costs are slightly lower . However, prices may be higher in high-end areas like Cherry Creek and Boulder due to demand and experienced specialists.

Sources: Colorado Dental Association , Denver Cosmetic Dentistry Price Guide , CareCredit

Factors That Influence the Cost of Veneers

Several factors impact the final cost of veneers , including materials, dentist expertise, and location .

1. Veneer Material

Porcelain is more expensive but lasts longer and resists stains.
Composite veneers cost less but may require frequent replacements.

2. Number of Veneers Needed

Treating one or two teeth costs less than a full smile makeover .
Some dentists offer discounts when getting multiple veneers at once.

3. Dentist’s Experience & Expertise

Highly skilled cosmetic dentists charge higher fees .
General dentists may offer veneers at lower prices but with varying quality.

4. Geographic Location & Demand

Urban areas like Denver and Boulder have slightly higher costs.
Smaller Colorado towns may offer more affordable rates .

5. Lab Fees & Materials Used

High-quality dental labs and advanced technology increase costs.
Some brands, like Lumineers®, cost more due to branding and specialized fabrication .

6. Additional Treatments

Teeth whitening, gum contouring, or bite corrections may increase the total cost.
Some clinics offer bundle pricing for full smile transformations.

How Long Do Veneers Last?

The lifespan of dental veneers depends on the material, oral care habits, and lifestyle choices . On average, porcelain veneers last 10–15 years , while composite veneers last 5–7 years before they need replacement. With proper care, some porcelain veneers can last 20+ years before showing signs of wear.

Average Lifespan of Veneers

Sources: American Dental Association (ADA) , Healthline , Forbes Health

Tips for Making Your Veneers Last Longer

1. Maintain Excellent Oral Hygiene

Brush twice a day with a non-abrasive fluoride toothpaste .
Floss daily to prevent plaque buildup around the veneers.
Visit your dentist every six months for professional cleanings.

2. Avoid Foods and Drinks That Stain

While porcelain veneers are stain-resistant , composite veneers can discolor over time.
Limit coffee, tea, red wine, and dark-colored sauces to prevent staining .

3. Avoid Biting Hard Objects

Veneers can chip or crack under pressure. Avoid:
Ice cubes
Hard candies
Pens or fingernail biting
Using your teeth to open packages

4. Wear a Night Guard if You Grind Your Teeth

Bruxism (teeth grinding) can cause veneers to wear down or break.
A custom night guard can protect them while you sleep.

5. Avoid Smoking and Excessive Alcohol Use

Smoking can stain composite veneers and contribute to gum disease.
Excessive alcohol can weaken the bonding material that holds veneers in place.

By following these care tips, you can maximize the lifespan of your veneers and protect your investment .

Do Dental Insurance and Financing Cover Veneers?

Does Dental Insurance Cover Veneers?

Most dental insurance plans do not cover veneers because they are classified as a cosmetic procedure . However, there are some exceptions:

If a veneer is needed for reconstruction after an accident or severe damage , some insurance plans may cover a portion of the cost.
Medical necessity cases , such as correcting severe enamel erosion, may be partially covered.

Tip: Always check with your insurance provider to understand your coverage options.

How to Finance Veneers

Since veneers are often an out-of-pocket expense , many patients choose financing options to make them more affordable.

1. Healthcare Credit Cards (CareCredit, Sunbit, Alphaeon Credit)

Allows patients to pay for veneers over time with low or no-interest payment plans .
Widely accepted by most cosmetic dental providers.

2. In-House Payment Plans

Some dentists offer in-house financing where you pay in monthly installments .
Plans may require a down payment or have zero-interest options .

3. Health Savings Accounts (HSA) or Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA)

If veneers are deemed medically necessary , they may be eligible for HSA/FSA funds .
Check with your benefits provider to see if your account can be used.

Sources: American Dental Association , Healthline , Forbes Health , CareCredit

Are Veneers Worth the Cost?

Pros of Veneers

Instant Smile Transformation – Corrects discoloration, gaps, chips, and misalignment.
Natural Look & Feel – Porcelain veneers mimic real tooth enamel.
Stain Resistance – Porcelain does not stain like natural teeth.
Long-Lasting Investment – Can last over 10–15 years with proper care.

Cons of Veneers

High Initial Cost – Can be expensive, especially for full sets.
Permanent Treatment – Requires some enamel removal, making it irreversible.
Replacement Needed – Veneers do not last forever and must be replaced eventually.

For many patients, veneers are a life-changing investment , boosting self-confidence and enhancing their overall appearance . However, it’s essential to weigh the cost, longevity, and alternatives before making a decision. (Source: Cleveland Clinic )

FAQ – Common Questions About Veneers

How much do veneers cost per tooth?

Porcelain veneers cost $900–$2,500 per tooth .
Composite veneers cost $250–$1,500 per tooth .

How much does a full set of veneers cost?

A full smile (6–8 veneers) costs $5,000–$20,000 .
A full-mouth set (16–20 veneers) costs $15,000–$40,000 .

How long do veneers last?

Porcelain veneers last 10–15 years (sometimes up to 20+ years).
Composite veneers last 5–7 years .

Do veneers last forever?

No, but porcelain lasts 10–15 years or more with proper care .

Do veneers ruin your natural teeth?

No, veneers do not ruin teeth when properly applied. However, a thin layer of enamel is removed , making the process irreversible.

Can veneers fall off?

It is rare, but veneers can loosen or fall off if not properly bonded or maintained .
To prevent this, avoid grinding your teeth and visit your dentist regularly .

Are veneers covered by insurance?

Most dental insurance plans do not cover veneers , unless medically necessary.

Can you whiten veneers?

No, veneers cannot be whitened . If discoloration occurs, they may need to be replaced .

Do veneers require special maintenance?

No, just regular brushing, flossing, and dental check-ups .
Avoid biting hard objects and wear a night guard if you grind your teeth .

Final Thoughts

Dental veneers are a popular cosmetic solution that can completely transform a smile. While they require an upfront investment , their durability, stain resistance, and natural appearance make them worth considering.

If you're considering veneers, consult a trusted cosmetic dentist to discuss your goals, budget, and options. With the right care, veneers can give you a beautiful, long-lasting smile .

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Veneers vs Bonding: Assessing Your Cosmetic Dentistry Needs

Wed, 08 Jan 2025 21:13:00 GMT

The Difference between Dental Veneers and Dental Crowns

carekitt@gmail.com (Carolyn Kittell) — Wed, 06 Mar 2024 19:32:07 GMT

what is the difference between DENTAL CROWNS and Porcelain dental VENEERS?

Are you considering refreshing your smile? Do you have any broken, missing, or stained front teeth? Depending on the extent of damage to your tooth and the involvement of your natural teeth, you may have the option of choosing between a dental crown or porcelain dental veneers. Both crowns and veneers have specific roles in enhancing your smile. Dr. Kittell and Dr. Santarelli are available to help you understand the differences between each and determine which option would be best for you.

DENTAL CROWNS VS. VENEERS

Each procedure serves different purposes, and each one changes the appearance of your existing teeth. Structurally, veneers cover the front tooth surface while leaving the rest of the original tooth intact..

A crown can also change the way teeth look. The main difference is that crowns are used when there is significant damage to the tooth, such as wear, cracks or loss of enamel.

In short, crowns serve to restore function and cosmetics, while veneers are used solely for cosmetic reasons. they are both made out of the same attractive, durable porcelain material.

.In many cases, some people may need both veneers and crowns to restore their smile. This can be determined during the initial complimentary cosmetic consultation.

Uses for porcelain veneers

Porcelain veneers are strictly cosmetic in nature. We can use cosmetic dental veneers to cover stains, mildly chipped teeth, slight gaps in your front teeth, and more.

Dental veneers only cover the front surface of your teeth. Usually, they’re installed in sets of 4 to 10, depending on how wide your smile is and what you are wanting to accomplish.

When you don’t need a crown but you want to change how your tooth structure looks, porcelain veneers or dental bonding are your best choice. You can select exactly how you want them to look, down to the shade, shape, and size.

Keep in mind dental veneers are not covered by insurance.

Procedure for Veneers & Crowns

The treatment process for veneers and crowns is almost identical.

Usually, the crowns and veneers process is spaced over two visits. We will need to numb and prep your original tooth to make room for the restoration.

Since a crown covers your whole tooth, a small amount of tooth enamel needs to be reduced around the entire tooth. Most porcelain veneers require minimal enamel reduction on the front of the tooth or no prep in certain cases.

After your teeth are prepped, a scan is taken and your veneers are designed and fabricated in our state-of-the-art in-house dental laboratory.

You will go home with a set of temporary veneers or crowns, which will be a very close replica of your final veneers. This allows you to "test drive" and give feedback to Drs. Kittell and Sanatarelli about shape, color and function.

1-3 weeks later, you’ll come back to the office to have your dental crowns or veneers bonded in place.

Can Crowns and Veneers be Combined?

Is it possible to get a crown on one tooth and veneers on the others? Yes. This is a great option if you want to improve your smile, but one tooth is decayed or broken.

Since you cannot place a veneer on a significantly damaged tooth, a crown is your only option. Being that we use tooth-colored porcelain to repair your broken tooth, we can have the veneers crafted from the same shade of porcelain so that everything matches.

For best results, you will want to have all of the teeth in your smile zone treated at the same time.

Denver's Top Cosmetic Dentist

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7 Dental Veneer Care Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Fri, 21 Jul 2023 22:13:18 GMT

Did you know veneers have only been around for a century? First used on Hollywood stars in the late 1920s, veneers were a less permanent way for actors to get a perfect smile for the screen. Without today's strong cement adhesives, these early tooth caps couldn't stick to the teeth well.

Since then, we've come a long way. Modern porcelain veneers can last upwards of a decade with proper care!

Of course, that's only true if you aren't committing any serious dental veneer care mistakes. The wrong habits can damage your new veneers, making them less likely to stay in place for years to come. If you're hoping to enjoy them for longer, here are a few mistakes to avoid.

1. Eating the Wrong Foods

There are several types of foods and drinks that dentists love to warn patients about.

Hard foods like candy and nuts, for example, put your natural teeth at risk of chipping or other damage. Certain foods and drinks cause tooth discoloration, including tea, coffee, wine, and foods with artificial dyes. Sticky or chewy foods can be hard to remove, exposing your teeth to more bacteria over time.

The great news about eating with veneers is that they stand up to these foods better in some ways. Because your veneers are less porous, for example, they're less likely to stain.

However, you should still protect your veneers from the common foods and drinks above! Repeated exposure to tooth-staining foods can cause discoloration, and sticky foods can cling to your veneers. Hard foods can sometimes chip the surface of your veneers just like they'd chip your natural teeth.

2. Biting Non-Food Objects

Your porcelain veneers can stand up to normal activities like chewing and drinking, but that doesn't mean they're tough enough to use on non-food objects.

If you're in the habit of biting your nails, chewing ice, tearing open packages with your teeth, or removing pen caps with your teeth, it's time to stop! These activities can put too much pressure on your veneers. Over time, you might cause them to loosen or become damaged.

3. Flossing the Wrong Way

Flossing is a crucial part of your veneer care routine. Like your natural teeth, your veneers can end up with food particles caught between them. Removing these particles minimizes your risk of plaque, which in turn makes it less likely you'll end up with complications to your veneers.

However, be careful how you floss! Pulling too hard on the floss can damage or loosen your veneers. You only need a small amount of force to remove food particles.

4. Brushing the Wrong Way

As with flossing, you only need to use a small amount of force to brush your teeth. The goal is to displace food particles, not to scrub the surface of your enamel!

Brushing too hard or overbrushing can damage the surface of your veneers. If you brush hard enough, you may even loosen the bond between your veneer and your natural tooth.

Instead, be sure to make gentle circles as you brush.

You'll also want to find a soft-bristled toothbrush with a small head. You can also use other veneer cleaning tools like a proxy brush, or a small interdental cleaner, to help. If you often overbrush, try setting a timer or using a smart toothbrush that warns you when you're using too much pressure.

5. Using the Wrong Dental Hygiene Products

Most dental hygiene products are safe for use with veneers.

However, you should avoid toothpastes with gritty or abrasive particles designed to scrub teeth. When in doubt, choose a gel whitening toothpaste or one designed for veneer cleaning. This can help you minimize your risk of discoloration while preserving the surface of your teeth.

If you use mouthwash, make sure you choose an alcohol-free option to protect your veneers.

6. Ignoring Teeth Grinding

Teeth grinding, or bruxism, may seem like a small issue at first. For most patients, it only happens overnight, which makes it easy to put out of your mind. Its side effects, like headaches or tight jaw muscles, may not feel significant enough to worry about.

However, the human jaw can bite down with up to 250 pounds of force. That's not the kind of pressure you want to put on your new veneers each night!

If you notice any of the common signs of teeth grinding, make sure to tell a dentist during a follow-up dental veneer appointment. Often, you can prevent bruxism with one easy solution: a custom mouth guard. Some patients also find that changing their sleeping position or addressing stress and anxiety can help.

7. Neglecting Professional Dental Care

If you often forget to schedule regular dental cleanings, you'll want to break the habit once your veneers are in place! While oral care at home can protect your veneers, you still need professional cleanings to protect the natural teeth under them.

When plaque and tartar build up on your natural teeth, it can damage your veneers. You may also start to notice discoloration. Your dentist can prevent these problems, ensuring that your veneers look like new for years to come.

Even better, your dentist can often spot small problems with your veneers before they snowball into major issues. Catching early signs of wear and tear or loosening adhesive can protect your veneers.

Your dentist can also answer any questions you have about your veneers. They can give you tips on proper care and help you troubleshoot problems like nighttime teeth grinding and TMJ disorder to keep your veneers intact.

Avoid These Dental Veneer Care Mistakes

The common dental veneer care mistakes above can put your teeth at risk. No matter how minor they seem, avoid them to keep your veneers spotless for longer!

Whether you're ready to get veneers or you want to take care of the ones you already have, we're here to help. Our team is proud to offer expert dental care services to patients throughout the Metro Denver area. Contact us with questions or make an appointment today .

How to Pick a Cosmetic Dentist: Everything You Need to Know

Wed, 10 May 2023 21:48:43 GMT

51% of Americans hate how their teeth look; if your household has four people, then chances are, you and one other loved one don't like smiling and laughing.

We all have imperfections in our teeth, but some feel more self-conscious about them than others. Plus, these imperfections can be serious enough to cause issues with eating and speaking, so intervention is necessary.

Going to a cosmetic dentist can solve your problems. However, with so many around, how can you ensure you choose the right one?

Read on to find out how to pick a cosmetic dentist who's perfect for you.

Find Out Their Credentials

Any reputable cosmetic dentist will have an educational background from fantastic institutions. Read through biographies to find out where these dentists received their degrees from, as well as what other ongoing education they're receiving. They should strive to provide the latest in cosmetic dentistry and improve your dental health.

These dentists should also be part of national dental organizations. This shows they're proactive in learning the latest news in the industry.

Ask About Their Experience

It's essential that you choose a professional with lots of cosmetic dentistry experience.

When inquiring about this, make sure you specify "cosmetic dentistry", as this number can differ from general dentistry. For example, they might've started out with general dentistry 20 years ago, but only started offering cosmetic dentistry five years ago.

The more years of experience and specific training in this field, the better.

See What Technology They Use

New technology is constantly coming out for all industries, and dentistry is no exception. Not only do these things make a dentist's job easier, but they also make procedures quicker and less painful, as well as more affordable.

So you want to choose a dentist who strives to use the latest technologies. This shows a real commitment to providing the best service for their patients. Those who are on the opposite spectrum will try to pinch pennies by sticking with outdated and old equipment, so steer clear of these professionals.

Ask for Before and After Pictures

One of the best ways to see if someone's good at a cosmetic dental procedure is to ask for before and after pictures. These will give you hard evidence of how well a dentist can do the job.

If the dentist gives you lots of images to look through, then this is a great sign. However, if they barely have any, or none at all, take it as a red flag. Either they don't have experience with the treatment or they didn't get positive results with their patients.

Check Out Their Online Reviews

To see what previous patients think of a dentist, turn to the internet. There are several avenues where you can check reviews, with Google being one of the easiest ones.

Sort through what people say are the dentist's strong and weak points; take their words with a grain of salt though. Not only are some people tough to please, but we're more inclined to leave a review if we're unhappy rather than if we're satisfied with services.

In any case, these testimonials can give you an excellent picture of how the dentist works with patients. You can get a better idea of whether or not they're the right fit for you.

Find Out What Amenities Are Available

Around 36% of Americans have a fear of dental treatment, and 12% have an extreme fear. Needless to say, a decent part of the population isn't comfortable with dental procedures, and you might too.

The dentist you pick should go above and beyond to ensure their patients feel safe and comfortable, as even the bravest person can feel scared with certain treatments. Only choose a dental practice that has the amenities you need to melt away your fears.

Consider Their Payment Options

Unfortunately, many cosmetic treatments aren't covered by insurance. Plus, they can have hefty price tags.

Some lucky patients may have their procedures completely covered by their insurance plans, or they may have enough cash saved to pay for it at once. However, if you need to pay for treatments on your own, then you might want a dentist that accepts payment plans.

While researching, it's also a good idea to find someone who accepts credit card payments and/or works with third-party financing.

Get a Consultation Appointment

A cosmetic dentist may seem excellent on paper, but you can't be sure until you meet them in person and interact with them. Many offer free consultations, so schedule one to have a brief chat.

While at this appointment, you can see their bedside manner and communication style. If anything, go with your gut if it doesn't feel like the right fit.

Ask for Written Treatment Plans

It can be difficult to remember everything a dentist says, especially if you see a few of them for initial consultations. So do yourself a favor and ask for written treatment plans.

With these pieces of paper, you can see what exactly needs to be done, how long they'll take, and approximately how much they'll cost. It'll make comparing dentists easier once you're home.

Pick a Cosmetic Dentist Who Suits You

With this information, you should now be able to pick a cosmetic dentist.

The most important thing is to schedule initial consultations. These meetings are worth the time spent, even if you don't end up with your first choice. Getting a good feel for a dentist and feeling completely comfortable is vital to receiving the care you deserve, so don't skip this step!

If you need an excellent cosmetic dentist in Greenwood Village, CO, then schedule an appointment with us now. Our experienced and compassionate dentists will give you an unparalleled experience.

How Long Do Veneers Last? Complete Lifespan Guide

Mon, 24 Apr 2023 17:28:16 GMT

Discover how long veneers last, factors affecting lifespan, and expert tips to make your porcelain and composite veneers last 10-20 years.

Dental Crowns

Mon, 18 Jul 2022 21:06:50 GMT

Dental crowns are one of the most common dental treatments, serving both cosmetic and restorative purposes and preserving the natural tooth.

Dr. Carolyn Kittell at Smile Essentials in Greenwood Village often recommends dental crowns for patients who have a damaged, misshapen or severely discolored teeth. Dental crowns are typically made of high quality porcelain materials that are customized to blend with your natural smile. An experienced and highly trained dentist and lab technician, Dr. Kittell will ensure that your dental crown is both aesthetically pleasing and supports your long term dental health with a natural fit.

Upon examination, Dr. Kittell will determine if a tooth needs a dental crown. Generally, this exam will require a visual examination and an xray of the tooth.

Dr. Kittell also uses metal free dental crowns in cosmetic dentistry treatments to improve the appearance of teeth that are misshapen, misaligned or discolored and eliminate dark lines and allergic reactions.

WHAT MAKES CROWNS FROM SMILE ESSENTIALS UNIQUE?

We customize watch dental crown for function and esthetics by utilizing digital technology and our state-of-the-art in house lab.

Learn more about Dental Crowns Greenwood Village today!

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Dental Veneers-Cosmetic Bonding

Mon, 18 Jul 2022 21:03:49 GMT

Dental veneers can be one of the best investments in yourself and your smile. If you are located in Greenwood Village or the Denver area and are interested in dental veneers, you have found the right place. Dr. Carolyn Kittell at Smile Essentials is a talented and knowledgeable dentist that focuses her practice on cosmetics. Not every patient needs porcelain veneers to have a beautiful smile. Porcelain veneers are beautiful, but they do require removal of enamel on the tooth.

Using a composite bonding technique to cover the tooth is all additive, requiring no removal of tooth structure. With these types of dental veneers we can close gaps between teeth, reshape teeth, and change the color. It can whiten and brighten your smile all at once! This procedure can be done with no numbing since there is no drilling into the tooth.

In this particular patient’s case (referring to the photo), she had chipped edges and rough surfaces on her front teeth. After her cosmetic consultation with Dr. Kittell, she recommended doing conservative cosmetic bonding instead of traditional porcelain veneers. Ultimately, the patient got a same day treatment with no numbing and the result was fabulous! After years of having chipped front teeth, the patient is now proud to smile .

To learn more about the procedure, check out this video of Dr. kittell performing cosmetic bonding live!

Benefits of cosmetic bonding:

conservative, no removal of tooth structure
color matching
can brighten and whiten groups of teeth
same day treatment
no numbing or shots
cost effective
no temporaries
gentle on opposing teeth
can be repaired if needed (porcelain cannot)

Contact us for a complimentary consultation with Dr. Kittell in Greenwood Village to see if you are a candidate for dental veneers. To view Dr. Kittell’s smile gallery with before and after results click here!

Smile Essentials Cosmetic Dentistry Video

Mon, 18 Jul 2022 21:01:31 GMT

Watch a cosmetic bonding procedure! See how Dr. Kittell Fixes chipped front teeth. She uses composite filling material to match the color of the teeth. A quick fix that takes about an hour. Contact us today at Smile Essentials in Greenwood Village, CO. For more, check out our Smile Gallery!

Replacing Silver Fillings

Mon, 18 Jul 2022 20:59:19 GMT

Not all amalgam (silver) fillings are bad. Aged amalgam fillings can start to break down or cause cracking in the tooth over time. These broke down fillings should be replaced with a new composite filling or tooth colored filling. It is never a bad time to ask Dr. Kittell if your silver fillings need to be replaced. Contact us today for a complementary consult!

How Does Your Oral Health Affect Your Systemic Health?

Mon, 18 Jul 2022 20:58:14 GMT

Do you know what that slimy layer is in your dog’s water bowl? It’s called biofilm! It is a thin, film made up of a bacterial matrix that adheres to most surfaces. Guess what?? That same bacterial matrix is found on your teeth. You may know it as plaque.

The team at Smile Essentials feels it is important to educate our patients about the correlation between your oral health and your general health. The bacteria, found in biofilm, is linked to many systemic diseases such as Cardiovascular Disease, Alzheimer’s Disease, Respiratory Diseases, low birth weight babies, Type 2 Diabetes and Colorectal Cancer.

In addition to reducing the risk of disease, managing the bacterial environment (biofilm) is an essential component in fighting gum and periodontal disease.

Practicing homecare such as brushing 2-3 times a day and flossing nightly is imperative in maintaining your oral health. In addition, it is imperative that you visit Smile Essentials for regular cleanings and exams.

Call us today to schedule a visit with me for an evaluation of your oral health.

The Downsides of Dental Anxiety…

Mon, 18 Jul 2022 20:57:20 GMT

If you would rather visit your in-laws than go to the dentist, you are not alone. Dental anxieties arise from a myriad of different reasons: a bad childhood experience, being needle phobic, embarrassment, etc. No matter the reason, dental anxieties can prevent people from seeking the care they need. Unfortunately, this situation can create a vicious cycle where people wait until they are in pain to get help. Usually, at this stage, dental problems may be so advanced, drastic measures will need to be taken to save teeth or worse yet, this may not be possible and treatment becomes even more expensive, invasive and time-consuming. While prevention is always the cheapest and easiest dental treatment, treating problems early is the next best option.

At Smile Essentials, we do our best to help our patients live by this standard. We understand all patients come with their own unique situations and treat them accordingly. You are not just another number to us, and we truly listen to what you need.

Additionally, we provide some special services to help make your dental experience positive.

A warm and inviting environment
Televisions in each room. Watching your favorite program may provide a welcome needed distraction.
Noise canceling headphones with the music of your choice
Heated neck pillow
Nitrous oxide upon request (Laughing Gas)
Gentle and caring delivery of anesthetic.
Aromatherapy for relaxation

While we may not be able to cure you of your dental anxieties, coming here just may end up being enjoyable. Don’t worry, we won’t tell your in-laws!

The Ugly Truth About Dental Insurance

Mon, 18 Jul 2022 20:54:14 GMT

Many patients ask, “Why does my dental insurance not cover this? Or why does my dental insurance cover so little?” The truth about dental insurance is that it is geared towards maintaining a healthy mouth. If patients have any other dental issues (big or small,) they may have little to no coverage at all. On top of the patient’s insurance premium, there are exclusions, co-pays and maximum limits. Please know, regardless of your insurance plan, we will make every effort to maximize your insurance benefits.

We have recently introduced a new concept to our patients, our Concierge Dental Membership. Unlike dental insurance, our membership offers no waiting periods, no deductibles, no exclusions and no maximum limit. We are able to provide our patients who do not have insurance or who choose to drop their insurance, with all of these exclusive benefits and additional savings on all procedures. This membership allows our practice to continue offering the highest quality dental care without the restrictions of dental insurance agreements.

Call us today for more information on our Concierge Dental Membership and how it can benefit you and your oral health!