Top Cosmetic Dental Services You Might Need for a Beautiful Smile
Cosmetic dental procedures are not just for Hollywood celebrities anymore. In fact, cosmetic dentistry has become quite popular among regular people who are looking for ways to improve their smiles.
The scope of cosmetic dental services is vast and includes everything from teeth whitening and veneers to complete smile makeovers. Here are a few of the most popular cosmetic dental services that you might need for a beautiful smile:
1. Teeth Whitening
This is probably the most common cosmetic dental procedure. Teeth whitening can give dramatic results and is also quite affordable. Below are the two methods for whitening your teeth:
In-Office/In-ChairTeeth Whitening
This is done by a dentist or a licensed dental professional in a dental clinic. In-office teeth whitening is quite popular because it gives you immediate results, usually 2 to 8 shades lighter. The procedure takes 45 minutes to an hour to complete.
In-office is also the safest way to whiten your teeth because the dentist can better control the amount of bleaching agent used.
At-Home Teeth Whitening
As the name suggests, this involves whitening your teeth at home using a lower concentration of bleaching agents. The results will take longer to achieve, but you can do it at your convenience.
There are a few products you can use, such as take-home teeth whitening kits that you can only get from your dentist, whitening toothpaste, mouthwashes, strips, and gels that you can purchase online or from local pharmacies. In addition, you can use natural methods, such as oil pulling and baking soda.
While this method is less expensive than in-office teeth whitening, it is not as effective. In addition, you need to be extra careful with at-home bleaching agents because they can result in tooth sensitivity and gum irritation if used incorrectly.
Also, it’s important to note that if you plan to get dental implants along with teeth whitening, you should do the latter first because artificial teeth don’t respond to bleaching agents. See the dental implants clinic Markham Ontario if you’re nearby to learn more about dental implants.
2. Teeth Bonding
This simple, affordable treatment can restore chipped, cracked, or gapped teeth. It involves using a tooth-colored resin material (composite) to fill in the gaps or chips. The material is hardened using UV light.
The procedure is quick and does not require anesthesia, but it is not as durable as other treatments and may need to be replaced after 5 to 10 years. In addition, the tooth bonding material can become stained over time.
3. Veneers
These are thin custom-made shells bonded to the front of your teeth. They can be made from different materials, such as ceramic and porcelain. They are an excellent way to improve the appearance of your smile by correcting chipped, cracked, stained, or misaligned teeth.
The procedure is usually done in two visits to the dentist. During your first appointment, the dentist will prepare your teeth for veneers by removing a thin layer of enamel. They will take molds or impressions of your teeth and send them to a dental laboratory where the veneers will be made.
The dentist will bond or cement the veneers to your teeth on your second appointment using special cement and a UV light.
Veneers are more durable than bonding and can last for 10 to 15 years or even longer with proper care. They are also resistant to staining. However, they are more expensive than other treatments and are not reversible.
4. Crowns
Also known as caps, crowns are covers that fit over your teeth to restore their shape, size, and strength. They can be made from different materials, such as ceramic, porcelain, metal, or a combination.
If you have the following condition, this can be a good option for you:
- Badly damaged or decayed tooth
- Large filling without sufficient tooth remaining
- A tooth that has been weakened by decay
- Dental bridge
- Misshapen or discolored tooth
- Damaged tooth after a root canal procedure
The procedure usually takes place in two visits. During your first appointment, the dentist will take impressions of your teeth and prepare them for crowns by removing any decay or damage. They will send these to a dental lab where the crowns will be made. On your second visit, usually in 3 to 4 weeks, the dentist will bond the crowns to your teeth using special cement.
The Bottom Line
Cosmetic dental procedures are increasingly becoming popular as people strive to achieve the perfect smile. Many options are available, and the best one for you will depend on your individual needs and preferences. Consult with an experienced dentist before making any decisions. Check this dental office for more information about cosmetic dental treatments.