If you drink coffee, smoke, or have chipped teeth from an accident, you’ve probably considered cosmetic dentistry. A better smile isn’t just for celebrities anymore. Several options are offered by dentists to fix your teeth for a perfect smile.
Teeth Whitening
As we age, it’s inevitable that all the food and drink ingested begin to discolor our teeth. Teeth whitening removes the yellow coloration and make them bright white. This cosmetic dentistry procedure uses a solution of hydrogen peroxide as the main ingredient. The difference between over-the-counter whitening strips and the procedure offered by a dentist is the potency of the solution. A dentist also whitens teeth more accurately and safely.
In-office teeth whitening is a simple procedure that involves a mold that fits over teeth. It’s important that molds are constructed according to the patient’s oral dimensions. Hydrogen peroxide can irritate gums and cause inflammation and discomfort after the procedure. The dentist places the mold over teeth while the patient sits in a chair reading or watching television. It is completely painless and results are instant.
Porcelain Veneers
Porcelain veneers are a cosmetic dentistry option that bonds a layer of porcelain over the tooth enamel to strengthen and whiten teeth. It’s perfect for patients who have small gaps or chips in their teeth. The procedure creates a perfect smile makeover by hardening teeth, fixing gaps, and whitening smiles. Porcelain veneers are also resistant to staining, so they are good options for smokers and coffee drinkers.
Invisalign (Invisible Braces)
Invisible braces are the newest cosmetic dentistry procedure that straightens teeth just like conventional braces. Invisalign technology uses CAD drawings to create a series of coverings that pull teeth together and align teeth that have slight gaps or crookedness. What makes them so great for adults is that they are completely removable. Invisalign braces can be taken out during eating, sleeping, or even during an important social event. Results vary depending upon the severity of the misalignment. The average amount of time required for these braces are approximately nine to twelve months.
Dental Implants
Dental implants are reserved for patients who have missing teeth or gaps that are too large for other cosmetic dentistry procedures such as porcelain veneers. Dental implants insert a titanium screw into the jaw bone making it permanently fastened to the oral cavity. This option allows patients to replace missing teeth with a permanent solution rather than dentures. The process involves cutting the gums and inserting permanent teeth into the underlying bone. It’s the one cosmetic dentistry option listed that has a long recovery period. Patients need painkillers and may feel discomfort for up to six months after the surgery.
