Your Guide To Cosmetic Dentistry

Cosmetic dentistry refers to a variety of dental procedures that improve the general appearance of your tooth and gums. Although primarily used to improve appearance, cosmetic dentistry also offers a variety of health benefits, as several of the procedures can help prevent cavities. Cosmetic dentistry also helps increase your overall confidence and satisfaction with your smile. Keep reading to learn more about the wide range of cosmetic dental procedures available to give you the boost of self-confidence you’re looking for.

Teeth Whitening

When teeth begin to yellow or look stained, often due to diet, smoking, and age, it can cause you to be unhappy with your smile and feel self-conscious. That’s why tooth whitening is one of the most popular cosmetic dentistry procedures. The advantage of in-office tooth whitening, instead of a home kit, is that it’s higher quality and typically gets more striking results. Some patients report increased sensitivity, but teeth typically return to normal levels of sensitivity shortly after the process is complete. The length of time that teeth whitening lasts varies, but with good oral care, the effects could last around two to three years.

Veneers

Veneers are very thin pieces of tooth-colored porcelain that are firmly affixed and bonded to patients’ teeth. They are used to correct several dental issues, such as stains, chips, and gaps. During an initial consultation, the dentist discusses your goals with you. During the one-to-two-week time period between when the impression is taken and when you receive your veneers, the dentist can sometimes provide you with temporary veneers. With proper maintenance, veneers can last you a long time.

Crowns

A crown, which is also known as a cap, is typically made out of porcelain and covers the entirety of the tooth. Crowns can fix issues such as deep decay that threaten the overall health of the tooth. They can last up to 15 years and will likely protect your teeth from further damage as a result of decay. Crowns also improve the appearance of chipped teeth, and the use of porcelain is common because the color blends easier, giving teeth a more natural look. Many patients report little to no discomfort during the procedure, and the effects can last up to 15 years with suitable care.

Invisalign 

Invisalign is used in orthodontics and is a device that straightens teeth without the use of metal braces. Rather than being bonded to the front of teeth with the use of wires, Invisalign are clear aligners that can be taken out, allowing you to eat and brush your teeth as normal. You will likely have to use the aligners for at least six months, probably more, but the use of Invisalign allows you to be more comfortable throughout the process, and you can avoid the appearance of metal braces, which typically appeals to adults looking for a less noticeable way to straighten their teeth.

Inlays and Onlays

Inlays and onlays, often referred to as partial crowns, strengthen and restore the shape of your teeth. Unlike a crown, they do not cover the entire tooth. If only part of your tooth is decayed, the decayed area is removed and a mold of the remaining tooth is created. From this mold, an inlay or onlay is made from a material such as porcelain or composite resin. It is then cemented onto your tooth, rounding out the shape and eliminating the appearance of decay.

Bridges

Missing teeth can have a big impact on tooth health and the ability to eat, as well as how you feel about your smile. A dental bridge can fix this issue by closing gaps in the teeth, using artificial teeth anchored by connecting crowns. It is cemented, making it incredibly stable. An implant-supported bridge is attached to surgically implanted metal posts within your jawbone. With proper dental hygiene and care, it’s possible for a bridge to last as long as 15 years.

Try a Cosmetic Dental Procedure Today

If you’re feeling dissatisfied with your smile or the overall appearance of your teeth, contact a dental professional today for help. With a variety of procedures to choose from, it’s best to schedule a consultation to learn more about each cosmetic dental procedure and discover which one is right for you.