What makes LUMINEERS® Porcelain Veneers different from other veneers?

LUMINEERS® BY CERINATE® are porcelain veneers that offer the painless way to a permanently whiter and perfectly aligned smile. Your LUMINEERS dentist can apply these contact lens-thin “smile shapers” to teeth without any grinding or shaving, transforming teeth into a naturally beautiful smile that looks perfect for every individual. LUMINEERS can even be placed over existing crown or bridgework without having to replace them.

LUMINEERS are contact lens-thin and are placed over existing teeth without having to remove painful tooth structure (unlike traditional veneers.) LUMINEERS is the painless, permanent cosmetic solution for stained, chipped, discolored or misaligned teeth.

LUMINEERS can only be made from patented Cerinate porcelain unavailable anywhere other than the Cerinate Smile Design Studio. In just 2-3 visits to your LUMINEERS dentist, you can have a custom-made smile that is clinically proven to last over 20 years - and it is completely reversible since your natural tooth structure is still intact! Get your perfect smile today!

Your smile is important. It's one of the first things you notice when you meet someone. A whiter, brighter smile is beautiful - it can help you feel better about yourself and make a memorable impression

Your lifestyle and the aging process can stain and darken your teeth. Many things we do on a regular basis can contribute to stained teeth, such as drinking coffee, tea, cola and red wine or smoking.

Whitening can get your smile looking its best. Non-professional procedures and clinically unproven teeth whitening tips can often lead to unsatisfactory results, you should look for a whitening procedure that is:

Fast and convenient
Long lasting
Low sensitivity
Proven to be safe and effective
Performed by a Dental Professional

INVISALIGN
Invisalign is an almost invisible options to straighten your teeth without wearing conventional metal braces. It uses a series of clear, removable custom-made aligners to move your teeth. Because you remove the aligners before eating and drinking, there are no food restrictions or problems with flossing or brushing. This technology is also more comfortable, avoiding the mouth abrasions that can be caused by the metal and wires of conventional braces. And this technology is also more convenient, since you are likely to spend less time in our office getting adjustments.

The clear alternative to braces.

Invisalign uses a series of clear aligners that are custom-molded to fit you. The virtually invisible aligners gradually reposition your teeth into a smile you'll be proud of.

• Remove your aligners to eat, brush and floss
• Change aligners every two weeks
• Your teeth move little by little
• Regular progress checks with your dentist or orthodontist
• Results often in 6 months to 1 year

Why people prefer Invisalign

The convenience and ease of use of the Invisalign system have made it the choice of over half a million people. In fact, Invisalign has been effective in giving hundreds of thousands of people amazing new smiles.

• Most people won't notice you're in treatment
• Won't disrupt your lifestyle
• Free initial consultation with participating doctors

No metal wires or bands to irritate your mouth, and best of all, most people won't notice you're in treatment. Invisalign®, the clear alternative to braces, has been chosen by over 500,000 people who want amazing smiles.

How Invisalign can improve the health of your mouth.

Teeth that are crowded or too widely spaced can create unhealthy conditions, including swollen gums, redness and pocketing, all of which are signs of periodontal disease. As Invisalign invisibly straightens your teeth, it can also do great things for the health of your mouth.

Healthier Gums

Clinical studies have shown that gum health may improve with the use of Invisalign during orthodontic treatment¹. Properly aligned teeth can help gums "fit" tighter around each tooth², which may lead to better periodontal health. Unlike braces, with Invisalign, you can brush and floss normally, which can help prevent tooth decay and periodontal disease.

Easier Cleanings

Unlike traditional orthodontics or braces, Invisalign has no metal bands or wires to trap food and plaque. Maintaining a good oral hygiene program will also reduce chances of plaque buildup, tooth decay and periodontal disease.

Improved Chewing and Speech

For some people, incorrectly positioned teeth and jaws can exacerbate speech difficulties and chewing problems. Correcting your bite by straightening your teeth can help improve both.

Lower Risk of Trauma and Abnormal Wear

Properly aligned teeth can be less stressful on supporting bone and jaw joints.


Is Invisalign® for Me?

Effective for a wide range of smiles. The Invisalign system has been successful in giving hundreds of thousands of amazing smiles to both teens and adults. Gendale Faminly Dental Care and Los Angeles California Dental Center is acertified Invisalign provider will create your individual treatment plan using Invisalign’s clear, custom-molded aligners to solve a range of issues, including:

• Overly crowded teeth
• Widely spaced teeth
• Overbites
• Underbites
• Crossbites

In fact, take a look now at “Before and After” photographs of Invisalign cases. You’ll see the amazing results Invisalign can bring.

Made to fit lifestyles like yours.

Now nothing comes between your lifestyle and having an incredible smile. Because Invisalign offers you comfort, convenience and virtual invisibility during treatment. With Invisalign, you can:

• Be as active as you like because Invisalign won’t hold you back
• Remove your aligners for special events, eating and brushing
• Feel more confident everywhere you go

Look your best during treatment.

Invisalign is clear and practically invisible, so nothing gets in the way of your new smile. No wonder Invisalign is the choice of over half a million people.

• Unobtrusive in business meetings or social gatherings
• No metal wires or bands to irritate your mouth
• Many people won’t notice you’re wearing aligners

Once you decide to improve your smile, the rest is easy.

Getting started couldn’t be simpler. The path to your amazing Invisalign^® smile begins here.

Step 1:
Visit Glendale Family Dental or Los Angeles Center for Dentistry
We offer an initial free consultation, so be sure to ask for yours.

Step 2: Map out a treatment plan.

You and your doctor develop a treatment plan specifically for you. Then the doctor takes bite impressions of your teeth, which Invisalign will use to custom-mold a series of clear, removable aligners that will gradually move your teeth into an incredible new smile.

Step 3: Your aligners are created.

The advancements in technology that led to clear aligners were developed by Invisalign. Your aligners are created via precision computer mapping and design, then are shipped to your doctor.

Step 4: Wear your aligners.

You’ll receive your aligner series, switching to a new aligner every two weeks as your teeth move. Just wear each set of aligners night and day for a two week period, removing them only to eat, brush and floss. Visit your Invisalign dentist on a regular basis for progress checks. Each case is a little different, but on average, treatment lasts about a year. Then you can show the real you with an amazing new smile!

How much does Invisalign® cost?

An investment in yourself.
We know that cost is a big question for anyone considering dental or orthodontic work. The truth is, only your doctor can determine the cost for your specific treatment. It depends on the kind of treatment you need, how long it takes, and even where you live. Invisalign treatment is usually similar to the cost of traditional braces—it can start in the ballpark of $3500 and go up from there. The national average for Invisalign is about $5000.

Does insurance cover Invisalign?

If you have dental insurance that covers orthodontic treatment, Invisalign should qualify.

How else can I get help?

Many companies allow pre-tax contributions to be set aside in a Flexible Spending Account (FSA). Orthodontic treatment is considered a qualified treatment that can be reimbursed using your FSA. Many doctors also offer flexible and affordable in-house payment plans.

What is Care Credit?

CareCredit is a third-party flexible patient financing program, specifically designed for healthcare expenses, that makes it easier for you to get the treatment or procedures you want and need. Click here for more information.

Straight teeth aren't a luxury. Any way you look at it, a great, healthy smile is an investment in yourself.

Patient Success Stories

Over 500,000 people have been treated with Invisalign®. See what some of our patients have to say.

William
Age 31
Investment Broker

At my age, to have the big metal train tracks in your mouth...I just figured, in person with people, I just wouldn't feel as comfortable as I would with something that was truly invisible. I really believe in the product, I am kind of a walking, talking billboard for it.

Breanna
Age 20
Waitress & Student

What I like best about Invisalign is the fact that I can take them out and floss and brush my teeth and put them back in. So it's not like I'm working around all this metal in my mouth, trying to get the toothbrush in there and the floss in there.

Vivian
Age 53
Nurse

I am absolutely, positively thrilled. The fact that I was done with it in less than a year, and really had no inconveniences whatsoever, makes me wonder why I even hesitated.

Daniel
Age 38
Chauffeur

I definitely smile a lot more. Even though I'm still in the process, it has given me more confidence. It's given me something to look forward to. I feel good about myself. I feel good that I have taken the steps to get these braces.

Gina
Age 31
Analyst Relations

I would not have gone the regular braces route. I am in a customer-facing position in the high-tech industry, with a lot of young and hip people around me. To be in management, with a mouthful of braces in front of customers and prospects, just wasn't an option.

Doug
Age 17
Student

My teeth look great! Using Invisalign was very easy and put me at ease, knowing that I was not going to have the pain of wires and brackets in my lips. I can now talk and smile with confidence, thanks to Invisalign.

Actual Results

Chief Concern: Spacing
Treatment Time: 13 Months

Front View

ClinCheck	Before
	After

What is Orthodontics? Orthodontics is the branch of dentistry that specializes in the diagnosis, prevention and treatment of dental irregularities. Tooth movement is accomplished by light pressure exerted on the teeth. The pressure is applied by a variety of orthodontic appliances. These appliances have progressed by use of space aged research to apply gentile forces over the course of treatment. These are not "my fathers braces", braces now come in clear or metal. They no longer need "bands" to go completely around the teeth. Many of your friends have braces or have completed treatment, look at the difference it has made.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT ORTHODONTICS How much do braces cost? The price of orthodontic appliances can vary, depending upon the severity of the malocclusion, appliance, treatment time and the orthodontist's fee. The price range is quite large, but you will probably end up paying between $3600-4800. The best way to get a quote is to ask your orthodontist. Do I have to? No one is going to force you to wear braces. However, if you have some sort of malocclusion, it will cause you problems later in life if it is left untreated. Braces line your teeth up in the best possible manner to avoid plaque build-up, and undue wear and tear on your teeth and gums. They also help to improve your self esteem by giving you the best possible smile. Will my braces hurt? It doesn't hurt to apply your braces, but for the first week after you've had them put on, your teeth and jaw may ache. If any parts of the braces start to hurt the inside of your mouth, you can apply wax to the braces to smooth things over. You can also take an aspirin or Disprin to help the ache. Remember - the pain doesn't last very long. It will also help to limit your diet just to soft foods for the first week. How old is too old for braces? You are never too old to benefit from wearing braces. However, there may be some limitations, depending on your age. What age should I send my child to an orthodontist? Once the deciduous teeth start to fall out (exfoliate), the child should be examined by an orthodontist. If the baby teeth have fallen out too early, a preventative treatment may be needed to stop the erupting teeth from overcrowding. When will I get my braces off? This depends on how severe your malocclusion is. It also depends on your age, your growth spurts and how willing your teeth are to move! You can speed up the process by not breaking your braces, maintaining good oral hygiene, and wearing your appliances correctly. The usual time for braces is 18 - 24 months. Are there any foods I can't eat? Yes! Some hard crunchy foods may break your braces, so you'll have to wear them longer. These food include carrots, peanuts, gum, candy, popcorn, ice, hard chips and biscuits. Can I chew gum? There are some types of gum that you can chew, which will stimulate saliva production in your mouth. Sugar-free gums such as Wrigleys are great. However, do not chew sticky gum that will get caught in your braces. Brushing & Flossing: The biggest enemy of your teeth is plaque and the most common and effective means of removing plaque from your teeth is regular brushing and flossing: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Brushing Hold the brush at an angle and press firmly against the teeth, flexing the bristles. Move the brush in small circles, cleaning the tooth surface. Brush above the archwire and below it. Brush the backside and chewing surfaces of all your teeth. Flossing Slide the floss gently between the teeth. Avoid snapping the floss through a tight space. Rub the floss up and down the sides of each tooth. Do not use a shoe shine or see-saw motion.

Sometimes, a parent whose child is being treated will choose to correct his or her bite at the same time. The fact is, braces can improve a persons smile-and confidence-at almost any age. More and more adults are turning to orthodontic treatment to correct a smile that's bothered them most of their lives. With the help of your dentist you can have a healthy, beautiful smile. And with today's smaller, less visible, more comfortable braces, plus the affordable payment plans that many orthodontists offer, adult patients are finding braces more appealing than ever. Some orthodontists even offer special payment plans for adults and their children who go through the treatment at the same time.

Depending on how much correction is needed, some patients opt for braces on the back surface of their teeth, where they're not visible to the eye. For many adults, the improvement in their health and appearance after braces is well worth the time and expense. We also offer Invisalign®, a nearly invisible mouthpiece.



While your child's teeth may appear to be straight, there could be a problem. Of course, the check-up may reveal that your child's bite is fine, and that can be comforting news. Even if a problem is detected immediate treatment may not be recommended.. Chances are, your doctor will take a "wait and see" approach, checking on your child from time to time as the permanant teeth come in and the jaws and face continue to grow. In some cases, there are problems that can benefit from early treatment.

Early treatment may prevent more serious problems from developing, and make treatment at a later age shorter and less complicated. Typically, early treatment involves the use of orthodontic appliances, which may be removable, to guide the growth of young bones and create a better environment for adult teeth as they emerge. In some cases, one will be able to achieve results that wouldn't be possible once the face and jaw have finished growing. Early treatment gives your child's dentist the chance to:

Guide jaw growth
Lower the risk of trauma to protruded front teeth
Correct harmful oral habits
Improve appearance and self-esteem
Guide permanant teeth into a more favorable position
Improve the way lips meet

It's not always easy to tell when your child has an orthodontic problem. Even teeth that look straight may be hiding a problem bite, and that's why it's important to take your child for that first orthodontic checkup no later than age 7. Here are some clues that may indicate the need for orthodontic attention:

Early or late loss of baby teeth
Difficulty in chewing or biting
Breathing through the mouth
Thumb-sucking
Crowded, misplaced or blocked out teeth
Jaws that are too far forward or back
Biting the cheek or biting into the roof of the mouth
Protruding teeth
Upper and lower teeth don't meet, or meet in an abnormal way
An unbalanced facial appearance
Grinding or clenching of the teeth

What is TMJ?

Many people, even doctors, nurses, and insurance companies, use the term TMJ. But what does this abbreviation mean? The term TMJ is an abbreviation for Temporo-Mandibular Joint, or the jaw joint. In fact, there are really two TMJs, one in front of each ear. The TMJ is the joint formed by the temporal bone of the skull (Temporo) with the lower jaw or mandible (hence, mandibular). These joints move each time we chew, talk or even swallow. The TMJ is actually a sliding joint and not a ball-and-socket like the shoulder. This sliding allows for pressures placed on the joint to be distributed throughout the joint and not just in one area. The TMJ is the most complex joint in the human body. Placed between these two bones is a disc, just like the one between your back bones. This disc is primarily made of cartilage and in the TMJ acts like a third bone. The disc, being attached to a muscle, actually moves with certain movements of the TMJ.

Symptoms

Facial pain; jaw joint pain; often in combination with neck, shoulder, back pain and/or headaches
Popping, grating or clicking sounds with movement of the jaw joint,
Pain in the joints of the face when opening or closing the mouth, yawning, or chewing
Swelling on the side of the face and/or mouth
A bite that feels uncomfortable, "off," or as if it is continually changing
Limited opening or inability to open the mouth comfortably
Deviation of the jaw to one side
The jaw locking open or closed

Cosmetic dentistry is a discipline within dentistry in which the primary focus is the modification of appearance of a patient's oral cavity and surrounding structures, in conjunction with the prevention and treatment of organic, structural, or functional oral disease. Through cosmetic dentistry, the appearance of the mouth can be altered to more closely match the patient's subjective concept of what is visually pleasing.

Treatments
Today's common cosmetic dental treatment options include:

* Whitening, or "tooth bleaching", is the most commonly prescribed cosmetic dental procedure. While many whitening options are now available, dentist-supervised treatments remain the recommended procedures for lightening discolored teeth.

* Enamel shaping removes parts of the contouring enamel to improve the appearance of the tooth. It may be used to correct a very small chip. The removed enamel is irreplaceable, and may sometimes expose dentin. It is also known as enameloplasty, odontoplasty, recontouring, reshaping, slenderizing, and stripping.

* Bonding is an option for chipped or cracked teeth. It is a process in which an enamel-like dental composite material is applied to a tooth's surface, sculpted into shape, hardened, and then polished.

* Veneers, ultra-thin, custom-made laminates that are bonded directly to the teeth, are an increasingly popular procedure. They are an option for closing gaps or disguising discolored teeth that did not respond well to whitening procedures.

* Gum Lift, is a cosmetic dental procedure that raises and sculpts the gum line. The procedure involves reshaping the tissue and/or underlying bones to create the appearance of longer or more symmetrical teeth.

Materials

In the past, dental fillings and other tooth restorations were made of gold, amalgam and other metals -- some of which were veneered with porcelain. Now, dental work can be made entirely of porcelain or composite materials that more closely mimic the appearance of natural tooth structure. These tooth colored materials are bonded to the underlying tooth structure with resin adhesives. Unlike silver fillings (amalgams) they are entirely free of mercury. Many dentists offer procedures to be cosmetic and because their patients prefer natural looking teeth.