Cosmetic dentistry is a branch of dental care focused on improving the appearance of your teeth, gums, and smile. It involves a cosmetic dentist performing various procedures that can enhance how your teeth look and boost your confidence. This article will discuss everything you need to know before you head to a cosmetic dentist.

Cosmetic dentistry includes various dental procedures to improve the appearance of your teeth. Unlike general dentistry, which focuses on oral health and preventing problems, cosmetic dentistry focuses on aesthetics. Some standard cosmetic dental procedures include teeth whitening, veneers, dental implants, crowns, and bonding. A cosmetic dentist will work with you to determine your current goals and the appropriate treatment.

Teeth Whitening

This is one of the most common dental procedures for which people head to a cosmetic dentist. Whitening the teeth involves bleaching your teeth to lighten them. This procedure can eliminate stains on their teeth from food, drinks, smoking, or aging. Several in-office treatment methods for whitening teeth exist. Depending on how stained and sensitive your teeth are, your dentist will recommend the next step toward teeth whitening.

Veneers

Veneers are thin, custom-made shells designed to cover the front surface of your teeth. They are typically made from porcelain or composite resin. Veneers can change your teeth color, shape, size, or length. They hide issues such as stained, chipped, or broken teeth. According to the American Dental Association, they usually last about ten years. However, it’s important to note that these are stuck in front of the teeth using a strong adhesive. Veneers do not correct dental issues like cavities.

Dental Implants

Dental implants are a popular and effective way to replace missing teeth. They provide a strong foundation for fixed or removable replacement teeth that are made to match your natural teeth. Dental implants can improve your appearance and self-esteem, making it easier to speak and eat. A dental implant is a small titanium post surgically placed into your jawbone to replace missing or missing teeth. The implant fuses with the bone and has a small hole where the fake tooth is screwed in.

Dental Bonding

This procedure involves applying a tooth-colored resin to your teeth and hardening it with a special light. Bonding can fix chipped, cracked, or misshapen teeth. It is a standard procedure for patients with a small crack or chip in their teeth. Bonding is usually a chip in their teeth. Bonding is usually not recommended for large chips because it can break if it’s too large. A cosmetic dentist will carefully examine your tooth to determine if bonding or another procedure will help you. Veneers are another popular option for patients who don’t want dental bonding.

Crowns

A crown is a cap that covers a damaged tooth. Crowns can be made from porcelain, metal, or a combination of materials. They can restore the shape, size, and strength of a tooth. Most crowns are tooth-shaped so that you can eat and speak properly. Many people are self-conscious about silver or metal crowns in the front of their teeth. However, porcelain crowns provide a more natural appearance for patients. Crowns tend to last for years, but you can’t eat sticky foods when you have them. If you don’t care for the idea of a crown, bonding, and veneers are other options. If several teeth are severely damaged, a cosmetic dentist can pull them and provide a dental implant for those teeth.

Orthodontics

Clear aligners are used to straighten misaligned teeth and correct bite issues. Alignment trays are carefully designed to fit your teeth and slowly move them into position. However, following a treatment plan is crucial to ensure your teeth go into alignment properly. Typically, treatment plans use several alignment trays that slowly move your teeth. You’ll need to properly care for alignment trays and go to follow-up appointments to ensure your treatment plan is effective.

Heading to a cosmetic dentist offers a wide array of benefits. These dental procedures can instantly make you feel better, enhancing your confidence and social life. You’ll never feel embarrassed about smiling at a job interview again. Most people enjoy better oral health because it’s easier to clean straight teeth. When you opt for cosmetic dentistry, you’ll enjoy long-lasting results that other dentists may not provide.

Every patient will have an initial consultation to help identify the proper treatment and an individualized treatment plan. After that, a cosmetic dentist will help transform your smile into something you are proud to show off. Ready to get started? Contact Your Smile Studio to get started.