Dr. Dean Gekas is a practioner of cosmetic dentistry. He received his degree at the University of Maryland's College of Dental Surgery in Baltimore. He has practiced dentistry for 12 years in Timonium, Md.

Q Do you see a growing trend of brides and grooms having cosmetic dentistry?
A "Absolutely. What we're especially finding is patients coming in prior to the ceremony. They frequently inquire about bleaching. The porcelain veneers are another terrific way to go. We have seen a huge interest in cosmetic dentistry, and the porcelain we use now can create such life-like teeth."
Q What are the most popular procedures requested by brides and grooms for their wedding day?
A "The most popular one is bleaching. We have the in-office procedure, which produces the best results. We also have take-home kits and bleaching strips, which work fairly well."
Q How much time do these procedures require?
A "Patients wear [gel strips from] take-home kits overnight for up to three weeks at a time. The office-strength bleaching strips are worn two times a day for a half-hour. The in-office procedure offers the fastest results. A bleaching agent is put on the teeth, and a UV light is aimed at the teeth. The in-office procedure is only two sessions, 15 minutes each time, and the teeth can change three or four degrees in color. Patients can come in with one color and leave with a very successful result."
Q What is the best option if the wedding is only two weeks away?
A "Bleaching. However, porcelain veneers are also an excellent possibility. The veneers can produce brillant, incredible results. After the teeth are prepared, an impression is sent to the lab. The veneers covering irregularities of the teeth are excellent."
Q How does a cosmetic dentist differ from a regular dentist?
A "There is no specific degree for cosmetic dentistry. It is more of a matter of personal choice. A lot of dentists get into the field because it's what the patient wants. We see movie stars with perfect teeth, and everyone wants to attain that level of perfection."
Q Do you have any media distractions for your patients during their procedures?
A "In our new office, we have a state-of-the-art facility with the option of individual music selections piped into each room, and headsets are available at the patient's request."