Are you self-conscious about your smile? Many feel the same! One of the first things people notice when they meet you is your smile. If you want to fix your smile, you should work with a cosmetic dentist to explore your treatment options.
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What Is a Cosmetic Dentist?
It is a common misconception that all dentists are cosmetic dentists. The primary focus of a general dentist is to treat and prevent dental diseases and disorders. Cosmetic dentists provide these services while also going one step further for their patients. They also provide dental services that enhance the look of your smile.
You might consider seeing these specialists if you want to make permanent adjustments to improve the look of your smile. Your dentist is able to use a variety of techniques to correct different conditions.
The most common conditions that cosmetic dentistry addresses include:
- Discolored or yellowing teeth
- Cracked, chipped, or damaged teeth
- Misshapen teeth
- Missing teeth
- Crooked teeth
- Gaps between teeth
Some types of cosmetic dentistry will treat multiple conditions that you may have. You may also have more than one treatment option available to you. It is important to consult with an experienced dentist for an individualized treatment plan.
Types of Cosmetic Dentistry
Depending on the underlying problem, there are a number of procedures your dentist can perform to alter your smile.
Teeth Whitening
Teeth whitening is a common treatment used to brighten and enhance your smile. There are three different types of teeth whitening that your dentist can recommend.
The first type of teeth whitening is done at your dentist’s office with high-strength ingredients under the direct supervision of the dentist. While this treatment is the most expensive option, it is the most effective.
For the second option of teeth whitening, your dentist will provide professional-grade whitening gel so that you can complete your treatment at home.
The third teeth whitening treatment you can choose is an over-the-counter option purchased from your local pharmacy or grocery store. This treatment offers the mildest whitening capabilities but is also the least expensive choice.
Bonding
Dental bonding is a way to fix broken, cracked or chipped teeth. Your dentist might also recommend bonding if there is decay present in a tooth or multiple teeth. Bonding is often used to replace noticeable silver fillings or misshapen teeth.
Inlays and Onlays
Inlays and Onlays are sometimes referred to as indirect fillings. They are made from a variety of materials, including porcelain and gold, in a dental lab. Inlays are placed directly on the front surface of the tooth and bonded into place by your dentist.
Onlays are slightly different. They not only cover the front surface of the tooth, but they cover additional surfaces, too.
Implants
If you have a severely damaged or missing tooth, your dentist might suggest a dental implant. A false tooth is placed over a screw that is implanted in your jawbone. The false tooth used will look like your other natural teeth.
First, your dentist will insert a screw into your jawbone. The bone and screw are given time to fuse together. After that, the dentist will permanently place a false tooth over the implanted screw in your mouth.
Veneers
Dental veneers are custom-made covers for your teeth. Veneers will match the surrounding teeth’s color, size, and shape so they look completely natural. Your dentist may use resin or tooth-colored porcelain to make the veneers.
Dentists use veneers to correct multiple dental and cosmetic issues. The most common reasons people need veneers include damaged teeth and crooked teeth. Veneers can even help reduce tooth gaps.
Choose Cosmetic Dentistry to Fix Your Smile
When you’re ready to fix your smile, find a dentist who can not only help with traditional dental care but someone who can help with your cosmetic dentistry needs, too. It is important to find a provider who you feel comfortable with and who will explain all of the options to you.
