Few people have the perfect smile but many want it. With all
of the advancements in dental technology, this is easy to attain. Cosmetic
dentistry can fix anything from discolored teeth to missing teeth altogether.
From bleaching and whitening to dental implants, there is something for
everyone. Don't hide your smile any longer and contact a cosmetic dentist today
for a consultation.
Teeth Whitening
Teeth whitening is one of the most popular cosmetic
procedures. Most people want to reverse the effects of time for a brighter,
whiter smile. Besides time and age, other reasons for whitening the teeth can
be food and drink stains from coffee or red wine and the use of tobacco.
Whitening is not a one-time procedure. It has to be repeated from time to time
if you want to maintain the bright color. Avoiding certain foods and tobacco
would also be helpful in preserving the white shade. Staining can occur inside
the tooth as well as on the outside. Teeth whitening is most effective for
stains on the outside of the teeth. There are many over-the-counter options for
whitening teeth such as toothpaste, mouthwashes, and strips, but the most
effective way to whiten teeth is through a dentist. A cosmetic dentist can get
your teeth up to eight shades whiter as opposed to strips that can get your
teeth only three shades whiter.
Veneers
Though they have more purposes, veneers can also be a
helpful cosmetic procedure in covering stained or discolored teeth permanently.
Good oral hygiene is still necessary to preserve the brightness. Veneers can
also be used to repair teeth that are worn down, chipped or broken and teeth
that are misaligned, uneven or irregularly shaped. If you have gaps in your
teeth, veneers are also used to close those. Getting veneers takes about three
appointments. The first appointment is for diagnosis and planning. You and your
dentist will discuss the results you are trying to achieve and if veneers are
right for you. Once decided, a second appointment is required to prepare the
teeth for the veneers. About millimeter of the enamel is removed from the
tooth's surface to make room for the veneer. Your dentist will then take an
impression of your teeth so the model can be sent to a dental lab where your
custom veneers will be created. This usually takes anywhere from one to two
weeks. When they are complete, a third appointment is necessary to permanently
bond the veneers to your teeth.
Bonding
Dental bonding is also a good option for those who need to
repair decayed, chipped or cracked teeth. Bonding also improves the appearance
of discolored teeth although it doesn't last as long as dental veneers. Bonding
can also be used to close spaces between teeth, change the shape of teeth and
to make the teeth longer. There is little preparation involved in bonding,
unlike veneers. The surface of the tooth is roughened and a conditioning liquid
is applied. The tooth-colored resin is then applied, molded and smoothed to the
desired shape.
Taking care of your mouth is a big part of taking care of
your whole body, and your oral and overall health will improve each visit. If
you are ready to take the next step toward a healthier, more beautiful smile,
contact a cosmetic dentist and schedule a visit. It's easy, painless and an
essential step to achieving an overall healthier you.
