Having a beautiful smile is important for your confidence and self-esteem. A set of perfect pearly whites say more about you than you think. Evidence shows that the state of your teeth plays a major role in your attractiveness to a potential partner. A smile is one of the first indications of interest in a partner – and your teeth are a reflection of your overall health. Feeling like picking up a toothbrush yet? If you weren’t all genetically blessed with perfect teeth, cosmetic dental procedures can help you achieve the smile of your dreams.
You don’t have to settle for less than perfect teeth. Keep reading to find out more about cosmetic dentistry and what procedure might be right for you.
What Is Cosmetic Dentistry?
Cosmetic dentistry is any procedure that enhances the appearance of your teeth. It is also known as aesthetic dentistry.
Procedures include improving the appearance of your teeth, gums, and mouth. Although many choose to have these procedures for aesthetic purposes, they are also performed for restorative reasons. Teeth that have been chipped, cracked, or discolored can benefit some cosmetic dentistry.
Many say that improving the look of their smile helps with their overall confidence. There are many different procedures, and each case will require a different type of treatment.
Here are some dental concerns that require cosmetic dentistry:
- Missing or broken teeth due to accidents or tooth decay
- Worn down teeth due to excessive grinding
- Teeth stained from tobacco or certain foods
These are just some of the dental concerns that may need attention from a cosmetic dentist. If you have one or more of these issues, you may want to consider a cosmetic procedure for your teeth.
Best Cosmetic Dental Procedure Options
There are several cosmetic procedure options to suit all dental needs. A dentist will have to access your teeth before recommending a procedure that is right for you. Ensure that you understand all of the options available.
Here are some of the best dental procedures to get you the smile you want:
Veneers
Dental veneers are made of porcelain and they cover your existing teeth. They match the color of your teeth and look and feel like your own.
You can get veneers for just one tooth, however, it is popular to get the front eight teeth covered with veneers. They cover flaws, tighten gaps in the teeth, and perfect the size and shape.
This is considered a permanent procedure because a layer of your enamel will have to be shaved off your teeth in order to install the veneers. The veneers are very durable, lasting up to 20 years with proper care. They are also one of the fastest ways to get a smile makeover.
Dental Implants
Missing teeth cause noticeable gaps in your mouth. Not only is this unsightly but it can be a breeding ground for bacteria to enter through the gums.
Dental implants are artificial inserts that act as tooth roots. They are inserted into your jawbone and a tooth crown is placed on top. These are strong, long-lasting, and they look like your natural teeth.
With the right maintenance, they can last up to 15 years. If you have several missing teeth, you may need implant-supported dentures.
Dental Crowns
Dental crowns are great for damaged teeth. Teeth can naturally get damaged for a variety of reasons. Tooth decay, injury, genetics, and age are all factors that lead to damaged teeth.
Crowns act as caps that are in the shape of your tooth and can replace your natural tooth. It can prepare the size, shape, appearance, and strength of one or more of your teeth.
Here are some conditions that may require a dental crown:
- Protecting a weak tooth from decay, cracks, or breakage
- Restoring excessively worn down or broken teeth
- Covering up teeth that are discolored or misshapen
- Reinforcing a dental bridge
- Supporting a tooth that is mostly filling
- Covering a tooth after a root canal
All of these conditions can benefit from dental crowns. The dental crown is cemented into place, covering any remaining visible tooth.
Teeth Whitening
Teeth tend to get discolored and darken with age. Certain lifestyle choices can also lead to discoloration. Smoking and consuming certain foods can lead to tooth discoloration.
Getting your teeth whitened by a cosmetic dentist is the fastest way to get your teeth sparkly white. The practitioner applies the whitening product directly onto your teeth and uses a special laser for the best results.
In-office bleaching is quick and you can see results after just 30-60 minutes. It is recommended to have several treatments for more dramatic results, however, you will see a change after just one treatment.
This is one of the more pricey treatments for teeth whitening, but the procedure is quick, and so are the results.
The Bottom Line on Cosmetic Dentistry
A healthy-looking set of teeth is vital for your self-esteem and confidence. Due to genetic and environmental factors, you may not have a strong and beautiful set of teeth. But you don’t have to settle.
With cosmetic dental procedures, you can get the smile that you deserve. There are so many options including veneers, dental implants, dental crowns, and teeth whitening, all of which can help improve the appearance of your smile. Don’t hesitate to get the smile that you’ve always wanted.
Be sure to check out our website and contact the trusted team at Willow Creek Dental for all of your cosmetic dentistry needs.