When it comes to self-confidence, how you feel about your smile is one of the most important factors. A beautiful smile can do more than just improve your self-image, though; many people attribute getting hired at new jobs or higher rates of success with clients and coworkers at their existing jobs to the quality of their smile.
Prioritizing dental health and hygiene is a great way to improve the health and appearance of your teeth while preventing future decay and damage. However, if you are looking to fix already existing stains, chips, and misalignment, you may want to consider cosmetic dentistry.
Cosmetic dentistry is a branch of dentistry that focuses on the appearance of teeth but can also improve comfort and function. There are many forms of cosmetic dentistry that treat a variety of different issues, including:
Teeth whitening.
This is a very common and relatively inexpensive way to brighten your smile. Though there are many options for over-the-counter teeth whitening solutions, a dentist can provide you with professional-grade whitening products that are designed to treat your exact shade.
Veneers.
Sometimes tooth staining can go beyond the abilities of regular teeth whitening procedures. In a situation like this, or if a tooth has unsightly chips or cracks, veneers are an excellent option. Veneers are usually made of porcelain, so they can keep their shade and shape for up to 15 years if properly cared for. Though the implantation process is relatively invasive and can be pricey, veneers are very commonly used to improve the appearance of teeth due to their durability and bright white color.
Crowns.
These are very similar to veneers but are often implanted toward the back of the mouth and are generally used to restore the appearance of extremely decayed or broken teeth. Porcelain is a common favorite for crowns as well as veneers due to its seamless tooth-like appearance; however, because crowns are typically used on teeth that do a great deal of chewing, most dentists will advise using durable plastics or other composite material.
Composite bonding.
Though composite bonding is used to attach crowns and veneers as well as fill cavities, it can also be used by itself to fill in cracks or chips. Composite material is naturally tooth-colored, returning teeth seamlessly to their former appearance.
Dental implants.
Surgically implanted into the jaw, dental implants act as a replacement for lost tooth roots and provide crowns with an especially sturdy base. Though crowns sometimes have to be replaced, dental implants typically last indefinitely.
Retainers.
If you want to fix misalignment in your teeth but don’t want to deal with braces, retainers are the perfect solution. Though you may need a referral to an orthodontist, there are many options for different types of retainers for the results you want in the timeframe you desire.
Considering a cosmetic dental procedure but having second thoughts? There are a multitude of options for cosmetic dentistry, covering a wide range of issues with varying prices to suit your exact needs. Ask your dentist about what type of cosmetic procedure will provide you with the results you desire.
