At Harris Dental Cosmetic Dentistry We Love What We Do
“I was very impressed with everyone at Harris Dental. I do NOT typically look forward to going to the dentist, yet at Harris Dental it is ALMOST FUN! Everyone is wonderful and Dr. Harris is very gentle!”
~Traci
Have a problem? Curious about a procedure?

Ask Dr. Harris

Name
Email
Phone
Question
      

FREE consultation for new patients.
We’ll sit down and explain how we can give you the smile you’ve always dreamed about.

Harris Dental
Harris Dental
Harris Dental
Harris Dental

Archive for the ‘porcelain veneers’ Category

Enhancing Your Smile With Veneers

Wednesday, March 31st, 2010

Veneers have been used by Phoenix dentists for decades to alter the look of their patients’ teeth. They were originally introduced in the early 1900’s as a costuming tool for actors. At the time, they were perfect for changing one’s appearance for a film role because they were only temporarily bonded to the teeth. Today’s veneers are much more permanent, but they serve the same purpose as they did back then. They enhance, improve, and restore your smile so you can look and feel your best.

When a Phoenix patient gets veneers, there is no need for a change in dental hygiene. Regular brushing and flossing, along with scheduled cleanings, is sufficient maintenance. Your teeth might be more sensitive to heat and cold, though, because part of the tooth enamel must be removed before traditional porcelain restorations can be placed. This is, of course, not a concern with DURAThin veneers, which can be adhered to the teeth without previously removing any enamel. However, with both traditional porcelain and DURAThin, the color of the restoration is permanent. If you wish to whiten your teeth at a later date, the veneer will retain its original color while the rest of your teeth become brighter. You have two options in this situation. First, you can have your teeth whitened before your restoration is made. That way you know it will match your smile. Second, you can wait until you want to have your teeth whitened and replace your current restoration with a new one that matches better. This is a more costly option in the long run, since you are paying for two veneers instead of just one; receiving whitening treatments first might be a wise investment.

Schedule a consultation at Harris Dental in Phoenix to learn more about veneers and how they will work for you.

Love Your Smile

Monday, December 28th, 2009

Many people in Phoenix think cosmetic dentistry is only for two groups of people: those with hideously disfigured teeth and those who are extremely vain. They couldn’t be more wrong! The idea of cosmetic dentistry is not to cater to the conceited or to make “ugly” people more beautiful, but to help every patient love his or her smile. Sometimes that means correcting a minor flaw in a single tooth; other times it means a complete dental makeover. Whatever the situation, there are many procedures the dentists at Harris Dental in Phoenix use to assist their patients in feeling more confident about their smiles.

The most common and least invasive procedure in the field of cosmetic dentistry is tooth whitening. This covers everything from cleaning stains off tooth enamel to lightening teeth by several shades. With several options to choose from, you can brighten your smile in whatever manner is most convenient for you. Some patients choose a take-home tooth whitening product, while others opt for a whitening procedure done at the dentist’s office. Either way, you can get exceptional results.

Veneers are another staple of cosmetic dentistry. Custom made veneers can be used to mask extreme discoloration, close gaps, and cover broken or chipped teeth. While some people choose to have veneers bonded to every tooth to completely change their appearance, most people get one or two veneers at a time to correct a minor misalignment or restore teeth that have been damaged.

Phoenix residents with serious dental concerns may be interested in another area of cosmetic dentistry: dental implants. These are an option for people with severely damaged, disfigured, lost or broken teeth, as well as for anyone who wants to dramatically change the look of their smile.

Regardless of the procedure used, cosmetic dentistry gives many people in Phoenix something to smile about!

Not Your Ordinary Veneers

Friday, December 18th, 2009

At Harris Dental in Phoenix, we use two different types of veneers to enhance our patients’ smiles. The first kind—traditional porcelain—is probably the most familiar. These are like porcelain facades for your teeth, and are used to cover up discolorations, chips, and many other dental issues. To apply them, your dentist must first prepare your teeth. That usually requires the removal of some tooth enamel by grinding or drilling in order to create a rough surface for the adhesive to cling to. Because veneers usually add some thickness, a tooth may also need to be slightly reshaped or thinned out so the veneer doesn’t overlap or protrude too far beyond the surrounding teeth. This prep work is usually done at the same time your dentist will take impressions from which the veneer will be created at a professional dental lab. Phoenix dentists have been using porcelain veneers like this for years, and until recently, they were the best option available to patients. Now there is an exciting new alternative for Harris Dental patients in Phoenix: DURAThin veneers.

DURAThin and traditional porcelain veneers are similar in many respects. Both types are hand-crafted specifically to match your own teeth, both in shape and color. Both are made of very strong, durable porcelain that is unlikely to stain or wear down. Both are intended to enhance your smile. The difference is that DURAThin, unlike other options, does not require the same prep work before application. That means your dentist can apply the veneer directly to your tooth rather than roughing up the tooth’s surface ahead of time. And because DURAThin veneers are so thin—similar to contact lenses—they add very little bulk to your original teeth. Schedule a consultation at Harris Dental in Phoenix to see how DURAThin can benefit you.

Why veneers?

Tuesday, December 8th, 2009

Veneers are a great choice for people in Phoenix who wish to correct dental issues such as slightly crooked teeth or permanently discolored enamel, especially for those who are squeamish about most dental procedures. Because very little of the tooth’s original structure is removed in preparation for applying veneers, the procedure requires minimal drilling and little or no local anesthesia.

While some orthodontic procedures can be extremely invasive and often take months or even years for teeth to be realigned, veneers provide a quick fix for smiles that are slightly uneven. They can be used to change the appearance of teeth to make them look straighter. For example, a gap between two teeth can sometimes be closed by applying veneers that are only slightly larger than the original teeth. In fact, in some cases where gaps have been created by undersized teeth rather than by misalignment, veneers are actually a better corrective option than traditional orthodontics. Chipped, broken, or teeth that have worn down over time can also be repaired through the use of veneers when the damage to the tooth is not too extensive.

Teeth that do not respond well to whitening procedures might also benefit from veneers. When teeth become discolored from the inside, or when heavy staining or color damage has occurred, traditional bleaching methods might not be effective. In such cases, a full set of veneers can be used to brighten smiles by several shades. Occasionally this happens to only one tooth instead, making it appear darker or more yellow than the other teeth. This kind of problem can be easily remedied by a single veneer that has been carefully matched to the surrounding teeth.

If you are looking to make your smile even more brilliant, call Harris Dental in Phoenix at 602-955-8600 to schedule a consultation with an experienced cosmetic dentist. Find out if veneers are the right choice for you.

Use Flex Account Funds for Phoenix Dentistry

Saturday, November 14th, 2009

Use Flex Account Funds for Phoenix Dentistry If you have money in your Phoenix flexible spending account you may want to schedule some cosmetic dentistry before the deadline. Remember, you lose any funds left over after the plan year ends. Why not improve your smile with tax-free dollars?

Even a small change can make a big difference in the appearance of your teeth. You might consider getting a veneer for a chipped tooth or replacing a broken crown. Maybe you want to straighten your teeth with braces or replace amalgam fillings with clear ones that blend with your natural teeth. Tooth whitening is quick and easy and benefits even the most attractive smiles.

Perhaps aesthetic dentistry is not your first priority. Maybe you have a more pressing dental need such as a cavity that is bothering you or swollen gums. Don’t let these problems get worse and possibly more expensive to treat.

Call 602-955-8600 to book a consultation at Harris Dental in Phoenix. We are located at 4444 N. 32nd Street, Phoenix, Arizona.

Drs. Joseph, Brian, Scott & Eric Harris are some of the most sought-after Arizona dentists and they stay at the forefront of cosmetic dentistry techniques and technology. A radiant smile is possible for anyone in the Phoenix area, regardless of issues such as tetracycline stains, periodontal disease, or missing teeth.

If you are planning to use flex account funds for dentistry, make sure you check your employer’s guidelines for eligible cosmetic or restorative dental procedures.

With a smile makeover at Harris Dental, what will your ‘after’ photo look like?

Correcting Severe Dental Problems in Phoenix

Saturday, November 14th, 2009

Correcting Severe Dental Problems in Phoenix Each separate restorative and cosmetic dentistry procedure performed in Paradise Valley can address a specific dental problem. For example, a porcelain veneer can perfect the surface of a tooth that is discolored or slightly misshapen. Dental bonding can fill a small chip in an otherwise healthy tooth.

Some Phoenix dental problems are more extensive and require a combination of procedures. Crown restoration combined with soft tissue grafts can restore a severely decayed tooth with the root exposed. A bone graft and dental implant can restore a missing tooth in an area where the jaw bone has receded. Orthodontia followed by tooth bleaching totally transforms a smile by straightening and whitening.

What is the difference between tooth bleaching and whitening? Whitening is the term for procedures which remove surface stains to restore the degree of natural lightness. Bleaching goes even further by lightening teeth beyond their natural shade. That’s right: you don’t have to resign yourself to yellow teeth even if they have been that way your whole life! The natural shade of your teeth, by the way, like your skin and hair color, is determined by genetics.

Some Phoenix smiles have been gleaming for years by regular whitening. You can maintain the whiteness of your teeth just as you maintain your fitness level. (Of course it is a lot easier to make a quick visit to your Phoenix dentist once a year for whitening touch-ups than sweating in a gym several times a week!)

We live in an age where severe dental problems can be permanently corrected. You don’t have to participate in a TV makeover show in Hollywood to access these premium cosmetic dental procedures. They are available right here in Phoenix, Glendale and Scottsdale. Drs. Joseph, Brian, Eric & Scott Harris has the same advanced training and extensive experience as the dentists who keep the smiles of famous actors and musicians camera-ready.

Schedule a consultation at Harris Dental to discover the perfect combination of procedures to achieve your ultimate smile.  Our phone number is 602-955-8600.

Aesthetic Dental Transformations in Phoenix

Monday, September 28th, 2009

Aesthetic Dental Transformations in Phoenix Many Phoenix professionals, students and retirees are enjoying the lasting benefits of aesthetic dentistry. A beautiful smile not only looks great, it makes you feel great! When you first look in the mirror in the morning while brushing those gleaming babies, you remember; oh yeah, I fixed my teeth and they look fantastic!

When you smile at old friends or make new ones, you are happy to show off your new movie-star grin. When you are in a professional setting speaking with colleagues or clients, you feel poised and super confident.

We have talked about different cosmetic and restorative dental procedures available in previous blog articles, but let’s review the most common.

Veneers are glass-like, wafer-thin covers that adhere to teeth. Porcelain veneers are strong and have the translucency of natural teeth. They correct chips, stains and misaligned teeth that do not require orthodontia. There are several companies that fabricate veneers. One of the most well-known brand names is Lumineers.

Crowns correct more extensive tooth problems. They are used in a variety of situations such as the final restoration following a root canal or to restore teeth damaged by decay, injury or periodontal disease.

Dental implants are one of the best fixes for a missing tooth. They are becoming a popular and effective alternative to bridges and partial dentures in Phoenix and Queen Creek, especially among middle-aged professionals and people in the public eye.

Bridges are another strong, natural looking replacement for one or more missing teeth. They have been used with success for many years.

Professional tooth whitening in your dentist’s office is the least invasive and quickest way to brighten your smile several shades. One of the most popular systems is called Zoom!.

If you are interested in any of these safe and effective procedures, schedule a consultation at Harris Dental today. Even if you are still a bit hesitant, remember: discussing your options with a cosmetic dentist does not require a commitment of any kind. It is merely a relaxed way to get the most reliable information.

We are waiting for your call. Harris Dental can be reached at 602-955-8600.

Creating Memorable Smiles at Harris Dental

Monday, September 7th, 2009

Creating Memorable Smiles at Harris Dental A smile takes but a moment, but the memory of it lasts forever. You can make your smile memorable and beautiful with a smile makeover at Harris Dental in Phoenix or Queen Creek.

Cosmetic dentistry is a broad term that specifies dentistry with an emphasis on aesthetics. Cosmetic dentists perform general dental procedures in addition to providing advanced cosmetic dental treatments. Phoenix cosmetic dentists have specialized training in the latest cosmetic dental procedures and techniques.

Harris Dental cosmetic dentists in Phoenix and Queen Creek are knowledgeable about the processes used to fabricate crowns, veneers, inlays, onlays, braces and dental implants. Advances in ceramic and composite materials have boosted the popularity of cosmetic dentistry but these miracle materials are worthless without a skilled cosmetic dentist to incorporate them into a healthy and beautiful smile.

When designing a dental treatment plan for a patient, the client’s goals and expectations are discussed. The most skillful cosmetic dentists consider the shape, alignment, color and condition of the teeth. The Arizona cosmetic dental client’s age, health condition and lifestyle also influence the plan.

If you want to learn about the possibilities for your smile, call Harris Dental at 602-955-8600. We have created memorable smiles for many of your friends and neighbors in the Phoenix and Queen Creek area.

Tooth Restoration in Phoenix

Wednesday, August 26th, 2009

Tooth Restoration in Phoenix At Harris Dental in Phoenix and Queen Creek, we use a variety of techniques to restore damaged teeth. Most dental clients are familiar with fillings. Traditional fillings are also called ‘direct restorations‘ because they are applied to the tooth, shaped and polished in one visit.

Another type of filling is called an ‘indirect restorations‘ and is fabricated in a Arizona dental lab. There are two types: inlays and onlays.

When a tooth needs more extensive dental restoration, a crown is often used. At Harris Dental in Phoenix and Queen Creek, we create strong, natural-looking crowns from a variety of materials.

What if the tooth is damaged beyond repair? There are a number of functional replacements for missing teeth. Dentures are not the only option.

Call 602-955-8600 to learn about the restoration options available. We have been improving smiles for patients since 1980.

Whether the damage is caused by decay, injury, bite problems, or natural wear; Drs. Joseph, Brian, Eric & Scott Harris DDS will choose the best dental treatment plan for your tooth restoration needs. Harris Dental has two locations for your convenience:  4444 N. 32nd Street, in Phoenix, AZ and 20261 E. Ocotillo Road in Queen Creek, AZ. We provide quality dental care for area families.

Affordable Phoenix Cosmetic Dentistry

Wednesday, August 26th, 2009

Affordable Phoenix Cosmetic Dentistry Will your Arizona dental insurance cover Phoenix cosmetic dental procedures? Many dentistry clients assume their dental insurance won’t cover any cosmetic dental procedures. This is probably true for tooth bleaching or first time dental bonding. However, many Arizona dental insurance plans and dental supplemental plans cover orthodontia and any treatment needed to repair damage from an injury. Medical insurance and worker’s compensation plans may also cover injury treatment.

Some Arizona dental insurance plans cover replacement porcelain veneers in certain circumstances. Check with your carrier for benefit specifics if you need replacement veneers due to deterioration. We can then discuss dental treatment options such as replacement veneers or porcelain crowns. When the work is completed, we may be able to help you submit your dental claim form if your plan requires one.

If you are in need of any kind of dental treatment; from a cleaning to major restorative work, come in to Harris Dental in Phoenix or Queen Creek. You can meet our friendly and accommodating team, undergo a thorough evaluation and discuss financing options. Even if you do not have Arizona dental insurance, let’s talk. Top quality Arizona dental treatment is a wise investment and may be more affordable than you think.

Dentists  Joseph, Brian, Eric & Scott Harris of Harris Dental have been proudly serving Phoenix and Queen Creek area residents since 1980. Harris Dental is a network dental provider for many Arizona dental insurance plans.

HOME | OUR DOCTORS | OUR PHOENIX DENTAL SERVICES | SMILE GALLERY | TESTIMONIALS
ABOUT HARRIS DENTAL | LOCATIONS | CONTACT | BLOG | SITE MAP | PRIVACY