Frequently Asked Questions
At Transforming Smiles, we understand that patients are likely to have questions about our Lawrenceville practice, the services we offer, and dentistry in general – that’s why we strive to provide plenty of answers in return! For convenience’s sake, our team has compiled several of the most popular FAQ’s we receive below so that this information is readily available. If you don’t see what you’re looking for on this page, please contact us right away so we can discuss the matter with you directly.
How does the doctor keep up-to-date on current procedures and technology?
Dental technology advances rapidly. Lawrenceville dentist Dr. Bruce E. Carter remains up-to-date on these modern techniques, products, and services through many hours of continuing education with a strong emphasis on cosmetic dentistry and complex restorative dentistry.
How can I ask Dr. Carter questions directly?
Dr. Carter is always available at his Lawrenceville dental practice to answer your cosmetic, restorative, children's, and general dentistry questions by phone or by email.
How can I safely whiten my teeth?
Professional take-home whitening kits from a trusted dentist are one of the safest and effective bleaching methods available. We also offer in-office whitening with Opalescence! Please ask about Brighter Smiles for Brighter Futures as well, which enables you to whiten your teeth, help in the fight against breast cancer, and receive a tax deduction for your donation all at the same time. Dr. Carter and his team donate their time to this charitable organization and do not receive compensation for bleaching services during fundraising months.
What precautions do you take to ensure patient safety?
At the Lawrenceville dental practice of Dr. Carter, we thoroughly sterilize all instruments in an autoclave that is tested on a regular basis by an independent company. If an instrument can't be heat sterilized, we submerge it in a chemical sterilant for 24 hours. After each visit is completed, we thoroughly clean and wipe down treatment rooms with a hospital grade surface disinfectant cleaner. We also use barrier techniques to protect hard-to-clean surfaces in the treatment rooms.
I want my front teeth to look better, but I do not want to wear braces. What would you recommend?
Dr. Carter can use porcelain veneers to transform the appearance of teeth without having to move them with braces. Veneers should not be used if braces are the best alternative for improving the position of the teeth, if the teeth are severely out of alignment, or if the patient has bite issues.
What’s the difference between porcelain crowns and porcelain veneers?
At our Lawrenceville dental practice, we offer both porcelain crowns and porcelain veneers. These cosmetic and restorative dentistry services have different purposes. Veneers are thin, custom-made shells crafted of tooth-colored porcelain; they’re designed to cover the front sides of teeth and correct many different smile flaws. Crowns cover the entire tooth and are often used in restorative procedures, such as root canals and dental implant restorations.