Do you long for a healthy, radiant smile when you look in the mirror? If the answer is yes, you may be a candidate for cosmetic dentistry.
From porcelain veneers to dental bonding to dental implants, how do you know what’s best for you? You can begin by considering the state of your teeth right now compared to what you hope to achieve.
If you’re unhappy with the appearance of your teeth, there is hope. Here are a few things to consider if you’re interested in cosmetic dental procedures.
Do You Have Missing Teeth?
If you are missing one or more teeth, it can impact your smile and lead to problems with your remaining teeth over time. A missing tooth leaves a gap and can cause your teeth to shift.
This can affect your bite. It can lead to pain while eating or cause you to grind your teeth as you sleep. If you have missing teeth, there are options.
Some options for restoring missing teeth include permanent bridges, dental implants, or dentures.
Do You Have Damaged Teeth?
Damaged teeth can affect your smile and your self-esteem. Whether you’ve experienced recent tooth damage or have been dealing with it for years, there is hope.
Minor damage like a cracked or chipped tooth is fixable. If you are dealing with this issue, porcelain veneers may be a good option.
If you have extensive tooth damage, you may benefit from porcelain inlays or porcelain crowns. All of these cosmetic options can cover up damaged teeth and restore your smile.
Are Your Teeth Dull or Stained?
Most people would love a white smile, but bad habits can lead to yellow or stained teeth. Teeth whitening has become an extremely popular choice in recent years.
Teeth whitening is a good option if you have otherwise healthy teeth that need some refreshing. A cosmetic dentist will talk to you about your whitening options and ensure the procedure is done properly.
There are a lot of whitening products on the market, but not all of them are safe. It’s always a good idea to talk with your dentist before investing in teeth whitening or any other cosmetic procedure.
Types of Cosmetic Dental Procedures
Many people who opt for cosmetic dentistry have lived with problem teeth for a long time. They may feel self-conscious about their smile or they may try to hide their smile completely.
For many people, cosmetic dental work is transformative. It can help you look better and feel better about yourself.
If your teeth are stained, chipped, misaligned, or worn, a cosmetic dental procedure can improve your appearance and your dental health. Here’s a closer look at some common cosmetic dental procedures.
Inlays and Onlays
Inlays and onlays are also known as indirect fillings. These procedures work well for a tooth with mild to moderate decay that cannot support a filling.
The inlay is placed on the tooth surface. If a significant portion of the tooth is damaged, an onlay may be a better option.
Inlays and onlays may be created in a dental laboratory or in the office from composite ceramic or porcelain materials and attached with dental cement. They can restore the shape of your teeth, strengthen your teeth, and prevent further deterioration or decay.
Dental Veneers
Dental veneers are custom-made porcelain shells that cover the front surface of your teeth. The dentist shaves a tiny bit of enamel from the tooth and then bonds the veneer to the front of the tooth.
Veneers can be created in the office by dentists with the latest technology or may be sent out to be created at a dental laboratory. If the dentist you choose uses a dental laboratory you’ll receive temporary veneers while you wait for a permanent set.
Your dentist cements the veneers to the front of your teeth. You have the option to change the color, shape, size, or length of the veneers.
Dental Bonding
With this procedure, the dentist applies a tooth-colored resin to the tooth surface. The putty-like resin hardens with ultraviolet light and bonds to your tooth.
Dental bonding is a great option for someone who has chipped or deeply stained teeth. Your dentist can shape, trim, and polish according to your preference.
Dental Crowns
Crowns or “tooth caps” are tooth-shaped ceramic pieces that completely cover a damaged tooth. Crowns are an option for chipped, decayed, broken, or poorly shaped teeth.
They can cover large fillings and spaces between teeth. Crowns can last from five to 15 years and are a more expensive option than dentures.
Dental Implants
Dental implants are becoming a popular option for replacing lost or damaged teeth. When covered by a well done crown they are almost indistinguishable from natural teeth.
The dentist uses a small titanium screw at the site of the missing tooth. This supports the implant. Once the bone and supporting tissue fuse to the implant, it’s permanent.
The implant acts as a tooth root. Then a bridge, crown, or dentures is anchored on top of the implant. If you have missing teet, dental implants can transform your smile.
Teeth Whitening
If your teeth just need a pick-me-up, teeth whitening is a popular option. First, the dental hygienist will remove plaque and tartar from the tooth’s surface.
Then, using a bleaching agent, the dentist can whiten your teeth to a lighter shade. Your smile will look cleaner and brighter instantly.
Enamel Abrasion
If you have a few stains on the surface of your teeth, your dentist may suggest enamel abrasion as an option. With this procedure, your dentist administers micro-abrasions to the tooth surface, scraping away years of stain.
Enamel abrasion can remove coffee, wine, and tobacco stains from the outer layer of the teeth. For deep stains, bonding or veneers may be options.
What Do You Want for Your Smile?
If you are not happy with your smile, cosmetic dentistry may be the solution. There are many cosmetic dental procedures for people just like you who want to improve the look of their teeth.
If you have questions about what procedures may be right for you, we can help. Contact Boise Family Dental Care today to schedule a consultation.
