The Most Popular Procedures Performed by Cosmetic Dentists
Do you wish for a perfect smile? You’re not alone. Everyone dreams of a perfect smile and perfectly aligned, white teeth. Cosmetic dentistry is the magic wand that can grant your wish. Your cosmetic dentist can provide several treatments to fix your teeth and your smile.
Teeth Whitening
Teeth whitening is one of the most common cosmetic dental treatments. Whitening treatments produce dramatic and lasting results for anyone who wants white, bright teeth.
Teeth can become stained or discoloured, especially if you regularly consume coffee, tea or wine. Smoking and some medications can also stain your teeth. A whitening treatment can make your teeth look whiter and brighter. With good care, the results of a whitening treatment may last weeks, even months.
There are two types of whitening treatments:
- Home whitening treatment: Over-the-counter, home whitening treatments use trays filled with a whitening gel. You have to wear them for some time every day.
- In-office whitening treatments: In a whitening treatment at the dentist’s office, the dentist will use stronger whitening agents while making sure your gums and mouth are safe during the process.
Veneers
Whitening treatments can help people with stained or discoloured teeth. But what about chipped, or slightly crooked teeth?
Veneers are thin teeth covers or shells made with porcelain, ceramic or composite resin. They are attached to the surface of the teeth to fix cosmetic dental issues. The veneers treatment usually takes longer than whitening treatments. The dentist will remove some enamel from your teeth to prepare them for veneers. Impressions of your teeth may be taken to customize veneers for your teeth. The dentist will check the fit and colour of the veneers and bond them to your teeth. Veneers can successfully cover dental imperfections to give you a flawless look and smile.
Dental Implants
Whitening treatments and veneers can take care of damaged or stained teeth. But if you have lost one or more teeth, you need to a permanent and natural-looking replacement. That solution is dental implants.
A dental implant is an artificial tooth root, usually made of titanium. The dentist will insert it in the jawbone where the original tooth was. With time, the implant fuses with the bone. Then the dentist attaches an artificial tooth - a crown, or a bridge on the top. The new tooth appears and feels just like a natural tooth. You can now eat, speak, and smile with confidence. Dental implants are strong and last long. They preserve the jawbone too and they function just like natural teeth.
Invisalign and Braces
Crooked teeth are not just a cosmetic issue. They can affect your bite and impact your oral health. Your dentist can fix crooked teeth with the help of braces or Invisalign.
Invisalign are clear aligners made with plastic. They can slowly shift your teeth into the right place. Being nearly invisible, they don’t cause any aesthetic issues. You can remove them at meal times or at the time of brushing your teeth.
Traditional braces were cumbersome but modern braces are smaller and less obvious. They can also fix complex alignment issues. Both braces and Invisalign require time to produce results.
Treatment may take months, even years, but you achieve a beautifully straight smile as a result.
Your dentist will help make the best choice for your needs, preferences and goals.
Composite Bonding
Chipped, cracked, and discoloured teeth can be repaired with bonding materials. These materials blend perfectly with your natural teeth and quickly fix minor dental issues. Bonding is a simple process in which your dentist will apply a tooth-coloured resin to the tooth. It will be shaped to make it blend with the natural tooth. A special light will be used to harden the bonding material. Since composite bonding produces natural results, you achieve a beautiful smile.
Choosing the Right Procedure for You
Select the cosmetic dental procedure that fulfills your specific needs and goals. Consult an experienced cosmetic dentist. They can identify the dental issue, understand your needs, and advise the right treatment. Good oral habits are necessary to maintain your oral health. Even the best cosmetic dental treatments might fail if you don't take care of your teeth. There is no alternative to brushing twice a day and flossing regularly. Don't forget to schedule regular checkups with your family dentist. No need let dental imperfections hold you back any longer. Ask your dentist for cosmetic dental treatment options.