How Cosmetic Dentistry Can Improve Your Smile

A cosmetic dentist focuses on improving the aesthetics of teeth, gums and bite. They fix worn, discolored, chipped, misshapen or stained teeth as well as close in dental gaps.

Cosmetic dentistry improves the appearance of your smile and boosts your self-confidence. It also helps maintain healthy teeth and gums.

Teeth Whitening

Teeth whitening is a common cosmetic dentistry pace procedure that can brighten teeth and improve your smile. It’s a safe and effective way to whiten teeth that have become discolored or stained due to food, beverages, tobacco use, and medications.

Tooth whitening works by breaking apart the staining compounds in pores of the enamel. The oxidation process breaks up the stains to reveal a naturally brighter and whiter tooth.

Age, starting color and genetics can all influence how quickly teeth lighten. Teenagers are usually quick to see results, but as they age and accumulate stains, it can take a little more effort.

Intrinsic stains are the most difficult to remove with teeth bleaching because they are deep in the pores of the enamel. These stains can be caused by trauma, aging, and exposure to minerals like tetracycline.

If your tooth stains are resistant to teeth whitening, you may want to consider other cosmetic dentistry options like veneers or dental bonding. These can be used to repair chips, cracks, and other minor imperfections.

Bonding

Bonding is a popular cosmetic dentistry procedure that can help restore and correct a variety of cosmetic issues. It can be used to close gaps, repair chipped or broken teeth, and improve discolored or yellowed teeth.

During the procedure, your dr cole dentist will apply a resin-like composite material directly to the surface of your tooth. This material is then shaped and molded into the desired form before being cured with a special light.

The cosmetic dentistry pace results of this procedure can last for years with proper care and maintenance. It’s best to keep up with regular brushing and flossing, and see your dentist twice a year for a checkup and cleaning.

Dental bonding is a relatively inexpensive cosmetic dental treatment that can be used to treat a number of problems including chips, discoloration and minor gapping. It can also be used alongside enameloplasty (shaping and contouring) to enhance the appearance of your smile.

Veneers

Veneers are a great way to get a brighter, whiter smile. They are also a good option for fixing cracks, chips, and stains.

There are a few different types of veneers, including porcelain and resin-based composite. The best type for you will depend on your needs and goals.

When you come in for a consultation, your dentist will examine your teeth and gums to see whether veneers are right for you. Then, they will take digital X-rays and photographs to help them design the perfect set of veneers for you.

After you receive your veneers, you’ll need to return for a follow-up appointment to make sure they’re fitting and performing well. You may also experience some mild pain or sensitivity after receiving your veneers, but this is temporary and will go away with normal eating and teeth brushing.

Veneers can last up to a decade, depending on the material and how you care for them. They’re a significant investment, so it’s important to maintain them with regular dental hygiene and avoid stain-causing beverages.

Dental Implants

If you’ve lost a tooth or teeth, a dental implant can replace them and restore your smile. They are surgically inserted into your jawbone, and the surrounding bone heals around them in a process called osseointegration (meaning “to integrate with”).

In most cases, a patient can undergo dental implant surgery with no major medical issues. However, certain health conditions may impact the healing process or your ability to wear an implant abutment, so be sure to discuss your options carefully with your doctor before you proceed.

After the implant is placed, it takes several months for the healing process to complete. During this time, the dentist or oral surgeon forms new replacement teeth that fit over the implant.