Cosmetic dentistry has become quite common these days. Many people opt for cosmetic treatments because they want to enhance their smiles or change them completely. Advanced technology allows cosmetic dentists to offer patients a number of simple, efficient, and pain-free options for fixing teeth that are discolored, chipped, or misshapen.
Cosmetic dentistry procedures can leave patients with a beautiful smile, enhanced self-esteem, and optimal oral health.
What is Cosmetic Dentistry?
Cosmetic dentistry refers to dental procedures that improve the appearance of natural teeth. Common cosmetic dental treatments include porcelain veneers, crowns, dental bonding, whitening, and more. These procedures are performed to improve the overall look of your teeth and gums.
Restorative dental procedures, such as dental implants, crowns, and bridges, are meant to restore the function of the teeth, but also have the added benefit of making your teeth look great, too. Patients who need restorative treatments sometimes opt for a full smile makeover, where they combine a number of restorative and cosmetic procedures to improve their dental health and improve the appearance of teeth.
Why Consider Cosmetic Dentistry?
There are a number of benefits to cosmetic dentistry. In addition to enhancing your smile and improving the look of your teeth, patients often report an increase in self-confidence and self-esteem after having cosmetic services performed.
Cosmetic dentistry services can correct:
- crooked teeth or misaligned teeth
- discolored teeth or badly stained teeth
- misshapen teeth
- broken teeth
- gaps between teeth
- uneven teeth
If you find yourself covering your teeth when you smile or feeling uncomfortable in social situations because you struggle with any of the above dental issues, cosmetic dentistry might be for you!
Cosmetic Procedures
There are a number of different cosmetic dentistry treatments that can help you reach your smile goals. When you come for a consultation with the dentist, we’ll discuss what your ideal smile looks like and build a treatment plan that is tailored to your needs.
Here are some of the most common procedures that cosmetic dentists perform.
Dental Veneers
Dental veneers are thin layers of tooth-colored material that improve the natural appearance of teeth by correcting discoloration or minor flaws like uneven or misshapen teeth.
Veneers are usually made from porcelain or a composite resin material. Porcelain veneers are both durable and stain resistant, but they do require more extensive preparation than composite veneers. Composite resin veneers are easier to apply and require minimal preparation. Both types of veneers are effective in improving the overall appearance of your teeth and giving you a perfect smile.
Veneers can make your smile appear whiter, brighter, and more uniform. They can also make your teeth appear longer.
Dental Bonding
Dental bonding is another great option that can restore the beautiful appearance and function of your smile without the need for artificial teeth. The process involves using a special dental adhesive that bonds directly onto the surface of the teeth. The composite material will fill in any gaps or holes left by tooth decay, fix small cracks or chips in teeth, and fill spaces between the teeth.
Dental bonding not only improves the look of your teeth, but it also strengthens and restores damaged teeth so they are durable and healthy.
Professional Teeth Whitening
Professional teeth whitening is the best way to get a whiter smile in a short amount of time. In-office whitening treatments can lighten teeth by several shades in just one appointment, and usually only takes about an hour. You can also get professional teeth whitening kits that you can use in the comfort of your own home. They have all the benefits of in-office whitening, but without the need to come into the dental office.
Professional teeth whitening is a non-invasive procedure that provides impressive results. The professional-grade whitening gels are enamel-friendly and won’t damage the teeth. There are different types of whitening treatments, so even if you have sensitive teeth, there’s an option that will work for you.
At-home treatments include whitening trays and gel that the patient can use at home. You apply the gel to the tray and place it on your teeth for 30 minutes a day. After two weeks, you will notice whiter teeth and a beautiful, bright smile.
Professional at-home treatments are much different than over-the-counter whitening treatments, which are not recommended. These generic options can cause tooth sensitivity, uneven color, and spots or sensitivity on the gums. If you want to have your teeth whitened at home, always go with a professional whitening kit.
Invisalign
If you have crooked or misaligned teeth, Invisalign is a discreet and convenient orthodontic treatment that can give you a straighter smile in as little as 12-18 months.
Invisalign is an alternative to traditional braces that doesn’t use metal brackets or wires. Invisalign clear aligners are made from durable plastic that is custom-made to perfectly and snugly fit your teeth. Each set of aligner trays is worn for about two weeks and gradually shifts your teeth into the desired position over time.
Many people prefer Invisalign over traditional metal braces for many reasons:
- They are virtually invisible, and most people won’t even notice you’re wearing them.
- They can be taken out for eating and drinking, which means you don’t have to restrict your diet. You can still eat all your favorite foods.
- They are removed for brushing and flossing, which reduces the chance of plaque and bacteria building up on your teeth while you are undergoing treatment.
- They often require less frequent visits to the dentist, since you’ll receive several sets of trays at once.
- Since there are no metal wires or brackets that can rub against your lips or mouth, there are more comfortable than regular braces.
Who is a Good Candidate for Cosmetic Dental Procedures?
Most people who have good oral hygiene are candidates for cosmetic dental procedures. In order to undergo a cosmetic procedure like veneers, boding, or Invisalign, you’ll need to have a fairly healthy smile. If you suffer from tooth decay, gum disease, or other dental problems, you may need to have restorative work done before you can have any cosmetic procedures done.Those who need restorative dentistry procedures often choose to get a full smile makeover and combine their treatments.
Improve Your Self-Esteem and Overall Wellbeing With Cosmetic Dentistry at Rite Dentist
If you’re ready for a chance in your appearance and want a beautiful, bright smile, contact us to find out more about our dental services. We’ll create a custom treatment plan with your smile goals in mind. We can’t wait to serve you!