Discolored, chipped and crooked teeth often make people self-conscious about their smile, but cosmetic dentistry can help transform and improve both the look and health of teeth. Dental professionals have a variety of techniques available to help improve a patient's smile and confidence.
Protecting the surface and structure of the teeth is essential for maintaining good oral health. Often, cosmetic dental procedures can help improve the functionality of teeth and even correct jaw alignment.
The appearance of crooked teeth may be a driving force for patients to seek out braces. However, misaligned teeth also can negatively affect oral health by making it difficult to brush and floss. This can lead to plaque buildup, which can cause gum disease and cavities. Braces can correct spacing and straighten the teeth to allow for more effective brushing and removal of debris.
Enamel reshaping involves the dentist removing a small amount of the tooth's enamel to improve its appearance. Shaping the teeth can also improve the alignment of the bite.
Dental bonding is a cosmetic dental treatment that uses a tooth-colored resin to fill in and mask minor imperfections on a tooth. It can be also be used to fill small cavities. Bonding is often used in conjunction with enamel reshaping.
Veneers are thin shells usually made of porcelain that cover only the front of the tooth. Veneers can improve teeth that are cracked, chipped or stained. They can also be used to correct small gaps in between teeth, which can help prevent plaque build-up.
Dental crowns are similar to veneers, but these coverings encase the entire part of the tooth above the gumline. Crowns are stronger than veneers and are used to restore teeth that have been compromised by severe damage or decay. In cosmetic dentistry, crowns are typically made of porcelain, resin or ceramic so they can be colored to appear like natural teeth.
Dental implants are an attractive solution to replacing missing teeth. Implant placing is an involved cosmetic dentistry procedure that can take multiple appointments over several months. However, an implant is an ideal solution for a missing tooth because it improves the whole mouth's appearance and acts to support the jawbone.
Teeth may become discolored from medications or foods such as soda, tea and coffee. Nicotine in chewing tobacco and cigarettes can also cause teeth staining.
The dentist can recommend a whitening treatment based on the type of staining. Over-the-counter whitening strips and gels are applied to the teeth with a brush once or twice a day for several weeks. The dentist can also whiten teeth in-office using a stronger bleaching agent that requires a curing light or laser.
Cosmetic dentistry treatments focus on improving the appearance of teeth but also often provide restorative benefits. Talk to your dentist about which treatments can give an attractive and also healthy smile.
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