Cosmetic Dentistry

Since 2013, Dr. Michael Zhou has improved smiles and self-esteem for our patients. When you smile, people around you feel welcome and comfortable. You appear more youthful, confident, and successful. If you often hold back from smiling, due to dental damage, missing teeth, or dark enamel stains, talk with Dr. Zhou about cosmetic dentistry treatments to revive your desire to smile, while potentially improving your oral health, as well.

Cosmetic Dental Services

Invisalign® Clear Orthodontic Aligners

Adults and teens no longer have to avoid braces out of concern for their appearance. While metal brackets and wires look obvious, clear orthodontic aligners are virtually invisible! Invisalign is a removable, transparent acrylic system that allows patients to smile with complete confidence during orthodontic treatment. Many patients appreciate the average 9 to 18-month treatment time, as well, because traditional braces can require two years or longer to achieve similar results.

One-Visit Teeth Whitening

Yellowed or dingy tooth enamel can develop for many reasons, from the foods you eat to the medications you’ve taken. Fortunately, you do not have to live with not-quite-white teeth any longer. In a single visit to our office, Dr. Zhou can brighten your smile up to six or eight shades! Teeth whitening, when overseen by a dentist, is safe and effective. Let Dr. Zhou help you decide which type of whitening will work best on your teeth.

Home Whitening Systems

Patients who prefer the convenience of brightening their teeth on their own schedule often opt for home whitening. The systems we provide are more potent than any over-the-counter product you can purchase, including whitening strips and gels. You’ll see results that progress over time, with complete treatment taking approximately two weeks, in most cases. Dr. Zhou will custom-shape mouth trays that hold prescription-strength whitening gel on your teeth. Wear the trays as directed, and you’ll experience dazzling results! Save the custom trays for reuse, and call us if your supply of whitening gel runs low.

Porcelain Veneers and Cosmetic Bonding

The single most effective cosmetic dental procedure for a wide variety of smile imperfections is porcelain veneers. These handcrafted ceramic shells permanently attach to front teeth to completely reshape, recolor, and renew any smile.

Veneers alleviate dental concerns such as:

Chipped or oddly shaped teeth
Widely spaced teeth
Slightly overlapping or misaligned teeth
Darkly or deeply stained teeth

Patients who aren’t prepared to invest in veneers, which can last for two decades or more with proper care, should inquire about cosmetic bonding. While bonding only holds up for 5 to 7 years, in most cases, it is an affordable cosmetic solution that addresses the same dental issues.

Tooth Reshaping

In some cases, natural teeth have rough or sharp edges, and adding bonding isn’t the best treatment option. Tooth reshaping involves removal of a small amount of enamel, to soften the lines of teeth for a more esthetic appearance. This technique also works well for slightly chipped teeth that can be rounded to create a more natural-looking shape.

Laser Gum Reshaping

If gum tissue is hiding your big, bold smile, you have what we call a gummy smile. Dr. Zhou has invested in a dental laser to precisely reshape gum tissue, without causing significant trauma to soft tissues. Lasers trim away excess tissue, while also sealing the area, so stitches are not required. In fact, soft-tissue lasers have revolutionized gum surgery. Patients can usually undergo a procedure and return to normal activities the next day. So, there’s no excuse for living with a gummy smile, when your gorgeous teeth are just waiting to be revealed to the world!

Schedule a Visit Now

Don’t stop smiling because of your appearance. Instead, call use today and schedule your cosmetic consultation with Dr. Zhou. He will take time to discuss your most prevalent concerns, then suggest treatment options that will meet your needs – and your budget.

Call now to reserve your consultation at our Ellicott dental office, serving families from Columbia, Elkridge, and Catonsville.

SCHEDULE AN APPOINTMENT (410) 750-2599