Question 1

DO YOU ONLY PRACTICE GENERAL DENTISTRY, OR CAN YOU PERFORM COSMETIC PROCEDURES?

Accepted Answer

This is a question that we get often. We perform all phases of dentistry, making sure that you have a healthy foundation first and foremost. This starts with having a cleaning, followed by x-rays and determining if there are any issues that need be addressed, such as root canals, porcelain work, bridges or implants. Once we know what we are working with, we will take an artistic approach in enhancing your teeth; giving you a smile that uniquely fits your face through a variety of different cosmetic procedures such as whitening, bonding, crowns and even suggesting Invisalign if needed.

Question 2

SHOULD I DO IN-OFFICE TEETH WHITENING OR AT-HOME TRAYS?

Accepted Answer

When it comes enhancing your smile with whiter teeth, it is solely up to you and your current lifestyle and urgency. Generally, we suggest in-office teeth whitening with Phillips Zoom in-office whitening here at our Staten Island location. It is much faster to come in and have one-session vs. spreading it out over the course of weeks or months with at-home whitening.   For example, if you want your teeth to be whiter and brighter prior to an upcoming memorable occasion such as a wedding, we suggest having our Zoom in-office whitening treatment. If you are a coffee drinker, in-office whitening is highly recommended. At-home whitening for coffee drinkers is always a losing battle as you are essentially taking two steps forward and one-step backwards with daily coffe drinking. Also, if you are thinking about getting veneers, odds are you’ll want to maximize your efforts with in-office Zoom whitening to be sure that you will have the whitest possible smile before we select a color shade for your veneers. See link here for video explanation.

Question 3

HOW DO I KNOW WHICH COSMETIC PROCEDURE IS RIGHT FOR ME?

Accepted Answer

As if going to the dentist wasn’t overwhelming enough for some, having to decide on which cosmetic procedure on your own can definitely make you lose some sleep. Luckily, here at Healthy Smiles Staten Island, Dr. Cipriano will go over all of your options with you giving you the pros and cons of each, ensuring that you feel confidence and comfortable in your decision.

Question 4

HOW MANY VENEERS SHOULD I GET?

Accepted Answer

Some dentists have a tooth minimum. However, here at Healthy Smiles Staten Island, Dr. Cipriano feels this is totally subjective to the desired look that the patient is trying to achieve. For example, some patients may only need two veneers to close a gap from teeth continuing to shift after braces, or in some cases to simply replace old bonding material from a childhood accident. Conversely, some patients may need the top 6 or 10 to achieve the “cocktail shot”, which is the teeth that you see from left to right when you speaking forward. See link here for video explanation.

Question 5

HOW LONG DO VENEERS TAKE FROM START TO FINISH?

Accepted Answer

Each case is different in terms of how many teeth we decide on doing, but generally a patient will come in for a consultation to go over the entire procedure so that they know what to expect. If we start that same day, typically we will prep the teeth in the same appointment and have them leave with temps. Then, depending on how many teeth we choose to do along with lab turnaround times, we can have you back in for the permanents in 10 days to 1 month. See link here for video explanation.

Question 6

SHOULD I GET IMPLANTS OR A BRIDGE TO REPLACE MISSING TEETH?

Accepted Answer

When it comes to choosing between whether a patient should get a bridge or an implant, many factors come into play. For starters, does the patient have healthy gums? Secondly, what condition are the neighboring teeth in? In some cases, a mixed approach might be best. It all depends on the current condition of each patient. A bridge will place stress on the neighboring teeth if you're not getting an implant for the missing tooth in the middle, but sometimes that's the best approach if the gums aren't healthy. So again, it depends on the condition of the teeth and gums in discussion. Together with the patient, Dr. Cipriano will way out all options going over the pros and cons of each. This whole-mouth health approach to addressing missing or damaged teeth is what makes us the best place for dental implatns in Staten Island.

Question 7

HOW PAINFUL IS GETTING DENTAL IMPLANTS?

Accepted Answer

During the dental implant procedure, Dr. Cipriano will give you an anesthetic so you should feel minimal discomfort if any at all. If you follow the post-operative instructions and take the prescribed antibiotics, the healing process should be a breeze.

Question 8

WILL INSURANCE COVER DENTAL IMPLANTS?

Accepted Answer

Typically, dental insurance doesn’t cover implants. However, more companies are realizing the need for these procedures so there are some dental insurance companies that do cover implants. In many cases, your insurance may help pay for teeth the dentist places on your implants, if not your dental implants themselves. Contact us today for a consultation, and to see if your insurance will cover your procedure.

Smile Makeover in Staten Island, NY

Cosmetic Dentistry for a Complete Smile Makeover

Who Is a Candidate for a Smile Makeover?

Chipped or Cracked Teeth

Surface Stains

Gap Teeth

Misalignments

Unusually Shaped

Discoloration

Benefits of a Smile Makeover

Cost of a Smile Makeover in Staten Island

Smile Makeover Aftercare

Reviews From Our Staten Island Patients

Smile Makeover Steps

Smile Makeover FAQs

What is a smile makeover?

Am I a good candidate for a smile makeover?

What procedures are typically included in a smile makeover?

How long does a smile makeover take?

Is a smile makeover painful?

How much does a smile makeover cost?

Are there alternative treatments to a smile makeover?

How long do the results of a smile makeover last?

Can I choose the specific changes I want in my smile makeover?

Are there any risks or side effects associated with smile makeovers?

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