Patient Questions

All dental fillings, whether they are made of metal-amalgam or tooth-colored material, eventually require replacement (usually every two to ten years) and may not maintain a desirable appearance as they age. These issues are typically most pronounced when fillings are placed in the front teeth. Known as incisors, front teeth are the most visible part of any smile, and the presence of fillings can create a variety of aesthetic concerns and potential dental health issues: Dark discoloration Yellowing composite resin…

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Porcelain veneers are thin shells of ceramic material that are designed to fit over the front portion of each tooth to change its appearance. Ideally, only a small amount of enamel is removed from teeth to accommodate the slender thickness of each veneer. The goal is to create a strong bond and seamless transition between the tooth body and the veneer, so that the result looks, feels, and functions just like a natural tooth. New York City cosmetic dentist Michael…

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There is a world of options when it comes to customizing your porcelain veneers. From ceramic materials (like e.max^® and feldspathic porcelain) to a wide range of colors, thicknesses, and translucencies—it’s easy to feel overwhelmed if you do not have the right cosmetic dentist to guide you through the process. Experienced New York City cosmetic dentist Michael Kosdon, DDS has spent decades transforming smiles with porcelain veneers, and even has veneers himself! Over his career, Dr. Kosdon has developed his…

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When a patient desires a “bigger smile”, it usually means they could benefit from a wider arch of upper front teeth and/or somewhat larger teeth. For individuals like these, cosmetic dentist Michael Kosdon, DDS often suggests porcelain veneers as an effective solution for changing the appearance of: A narrow smile Small teeth Worn teeth Uneven teeth Crowded and/or misaligned teeth Transforming the front upper teeth into a big, beautiful smile can be as simple as placing eight porcelain veneers. Dr….

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Thankfully, there is an effective, state-of-the-art solution for correcting the appearance of excess gum (gingival) tissue. Gum recontouring with a dental laser allows NYC cosmetic dentist Michael Kosdon, DDS to precisely sculpt the gumline for an improved gum-to-tooth ratio. When compared to older methods of gum recontouring which required manual excision of gum tissue, modern laser gum lift techniques can offer several important benefits: Minimally invasive Requires only local anesthetic Faster treatment and healing Improved comfort during and after treatment…

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Patients who develop stains or discoloration between teeth enhanced with porcelain veneers may be inclined to think professional teeth whitening treatments or over-the-counter bleaching products can solve their dilemma. Unfortunately, these options do not provide the results they are looking for. Because of the unique nature of these stains, New York City cosmetic dentist Michael Kosdon, DDS recommends a different solution—visit a skilled dental hygienist who can perform a special polishing treatment designed to address stains between teeth! On our…

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  An asymmetrical smile can be caused by a variety of factors—teeth, musculature, and jaw position can all play a role in creating the appearance of smile imbalance. When the teeth are primarily to blame, New York City cosmetic dentist Michael Kosdon, DDS believes that porcelain veneers are often the best way to achieve a more harmonious smile. Dr. Kosdon explains that it is common for teeth to be longer on one side of the mouth—usually, the affected side is…

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Dental veneers come in a variety of types, and many patients are interested in those that require as little alteration to their existing teeth as possible. In some cases, a tooth that is being fitted for a porcelain veneer must be altered to a certain degree in order to provide the best possible functional and aesthetic result. These alterations generally involve the removal of a relatively small amount of enamel and modifying the tooth in such a way that it…

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When high-quality porcelain veneers are properly cared for, they can last for decades. Beverly Hills cosmetic dentist Michael Kosdon, DDS receives lots of questions from patients, and even individuals online, seeking advice about the best ways to care for veneers. First off, it is important to know what type of veneers you have or are planning to get. If your veneers are made from 100% porcelain ceramic, which is very similar to enamel, they are likely very resistant to staining,…

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As we age, teeth can become gradually worn and shortened due to friction from normal use. For some, harmful teeth grinding and clenching, along with damaging habits like nail-biting and chewing on ice, can hasten noticeable dental wear at an earlier age. Worn teeth pose both a structural and aesthetic challenge for many of Dr. Michael Kosdon’s patients who are interested in restoring their smiles. Typically, he suggests either porcelain veneers or porcelain crowns as effective solutions for strengthening and…

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