Cosmetic dentistry focuses on improving the general appearance of teeth and gums. Read more below about some of the more popular cosmetic dentistry procedures and services to find out if they could be right for you.
Teeth Whitening
Over time, your teeth can become yellowed and stained due to age and enamel wear, acids in food and drinks (like pasta sauce, coffee, and soda), and smoking. If you find your teeth aren’t as white as they used to be, you may be a candidate for professional teeth whitening services. In-office teeth whitening is much stronger than whitening toothpastes or strips because it uses a higher concentration of a peroxide-based whitening agent for a striking result.
Veneers
Veneers aren’t just for movie stars. They may be right for you if you’re bothered by the appearance of your chipped, unevenly spaced, or misshapen teeth. Veneers are extremely thin covers made of porcelain or composite resin that are cemented directly to the front of teeth for a more classic or uniform look. You can still get cavities (in the area around your veneers), so make sure you keep up with daily brushing and flossing.
Invisalign
Invisalign is a popular method of teeth straightening for both adults and teenagers. Invisalign technology uses a series of clear aligners to straighten your teeth without the use of wires. Contact your dental team today to learn more about Invisalign and to see if it’s right for you!
Dental Implants
Dental implants are surgically implanted in your jaw to replace a tooth lost due to illness or a traumatic injury to the mouth. The remaining damaged tooth is removed, and the implant is directly fixed into your jawbone in place of your tooth’s root. Implants can improve speech abilities or chewing patterns that have been impacted due to the missing tooth/teeth and can have a lengthy healing process, so talk to your dentist to discuss your options.
Cosmetic Bonding
Cosmetic bonding is a more cost-effective way to repair minor aesthetic issues, such as a chipped tooth. Your dentist applies a color-matched bonding agent to the damaged area and trims/shapes it for a seamless look.
Dental Crowns
Crowns are another common way to repair damage to teeth. They are basically caps that are placed on top of your existing teeth to restore their shape for a more natural appearance. Dental crowns are typically made from materials such as metal or ceramics.
Inlays and Onlays
Inlays and onlays are pieces made from composite materials, porcelain, and sometimes even gold and are fabricated in a lab. An alternative to dental crowns, onlays cover the “cusp” of the tooth and are a less invasive way to fix damage to the exterior. An inlay fills the space inside your tooth to repair minor decay.
Laser Gum Surgery
Cosmetic dentistry is more than just fixing your teeth’s appearance. You can also give your gums a makeover. Laser recontouring makes your teeth appear longer by removing excess gum tissue for a brighter and wider smile. This procedure is relatively quick and painless, so if you’ve experienced gum disease or are just looking to improve the appearance of your gums, talk to a cosmetic dentist to discuss your potential results.
Contact Your Cosmetic Dentist Today
If you’re considering a cosmetic dentistry procedure, contact us today to discuss your options with a cosmetic dentist and find the procedure that’s right for you.