Cosmetic Dentistry in Fitchburg, WI
Cosmetic dentistry services at Arboretum Dental in Fitchburg, Wisconsin focus on improving the appearance of teeth and gums while supporting long-term oral health. This page explains common options, how treatments work, and what patients in Fitchburg, WI can expect from start to finish.
Cosmetic dentistry services explained
Cosmetic dentistry is a group of treatments designed to enhance the color, shape, size, and alignment of teeth. Options range from quick touch-ups to full smile makeovers, depending on your goals and oral health.
- Teeth whitening: Professional whitening lifts deep stains more predictably than over-the-counter products.
- Porcelain veneers: Thin shells bonded to the front of teeth to refine shape, close small gaps, and brighten color.
- Composite bonding: Tooth-colored resin repairs chips, fills small spaces, and reshapes edges in a single visit.
- All-ceramic crowns: Natural-looking restorations that rebuild strength and appearance for damaged or heavily filled teeth.
- Clear aligners: Removable trays that straighten mild to moderate crowding or spacing without brackets.
- Gum contouring: Gentle reshaping of excess gum tissue to balance the smile line.
Not every option is right for every smile. A thorough exam identifies which treatments fit your bite, enamel condition, and goals. Many patients combine services for a comprehensive result often described as a smile makeover.
How cosmetic care can help you
- Improves tooth color by removing stains or placing long-lasting ceramic materials.
- Refines shape and size to create symmetry and a balanced smile line.
- Closes small gaps and smooths chips for a more even appearance.
- Aligns teeth with clear aligners to improve aesthetics and ease of cleaning.
- Protects weakened teeth when crowns are used, supporting comfort and function.
Along with appearance, well-planned cosmetic care can make brushing and flossing easier, which may support gum health over time.
The cosmetic dentistry process
Consultation and planning
The visit begins with a conversation about goals, followed by a comprehensive exam, photos, and digital X-rays as needed. Shade guides and smile photos help define target color and shape. For complex cases, models or digital previews may be created to show likely outcomes and guide tooth proportions.
Preparation and treatment
Whitening is often performed first to set the baseline color. Minimal-prep techniques are used when possible for veneers and bonding. Clear aligner therapy may precede other work to align teeth into better positions for long-term stability. Local anesthesia is used when needed to ensure comfort.
Follow-up and maintenance
After placement, small adjustments fine-tune bite and contours. A personalized maintenance plan helps protect results, including night guards if you clench or grind and touch-up whitening when appropriate.
What to expect before and after treatment
- Candidacy: Healthy gums and a stable bite are essential before cosmetic procedures.
- Sensitivity: Whitening can cause temporary sensitivity, which usually resolves within days.
- Longevity: Bonding often lasts 3–7 years, veneers 10–15 years or more, and crowns can last even longer with good care.
- Home care: Use nonabrasive toothpaste, floss daily, and limit dark beverages to maintain shade.
- Lifestyle: A mouthguard protects cosmetic work during sports, and a night guard helps shield against wear from bruxism.
Clear aligner treatment typically takes several months to over a year, depending on complexity. Veneers and crowns may require two or more visits, including a try-in step to verify color and fit. Small variations are normal, and adjustments help achieve a natural look.