Getting a Smile Makeover From Your Cosmetic Dentist

When we think of dental work, we often think of restorative procedures like fillings and crowns. We often only think about going to the dentist to treat a problem with decay and/or pain. But there is a whole branch of dentistry dedicated to aesthetics. It is called cosmetic dentistry.

Cosmetic dentistry can address problems with:

• Widely spaced teeth
• Stained or discolored teeth
• Worn, chipped, or broken teeth
• Crooked or overlapping teeth
• Gummy smiles
• Mismatched crowns
• Old dental work

Bonding is one of the easiest and least expensive cosmetic dental procedures. Bonding can repair chipped or cracked teeth, close gaps between teeth, or replace silver amalgam fillings.

Veneers are bonded to the front of the teeth, changing their color, shape, size, or length. They are custom-made and can be made of porcelain or resin composite. Veneers are more conservative than having a crown placed on a tooth, but are a permanent procedure.

A crown is a tooth-shaped “cap” that is placed over a damaged or weak tooth to improve its strength, size, shape, or appearance.

Teeth whitening is one of the most widely available cosmetic procedures. It includes toothpastes and rinses, over-the-counter gels, trays, and strips, and whitening products available through a dentist. Tooth whitening is ideal for people who have healthy gums and teeth with minimal restorations. Teeth with yellow undertones respond best to teeth whitening products.

Composite restorations are commonly used in restorative procedures. People often have old amalgam fillings replaced with white composite fillings.

Dental implants are becoming commonplace as millions of Americans suffer tooth loss, mostly due to tooth decay, gum disease, or injury. Implants replace the root of a missing tooth, providing a strong foundation for the attachment of artificial teeth.

Modern treatment options make cosmetic dental procedures and smile makeovers faster than ever. You can have a new smile in just two or three visits. The length of a treatment plan will depend on your oral health and the results you seek.

Resolving any oral health issues before beginning the cosmetic phase of treatment is important. A healthy foundation ensures that your new smile lasts for a lifetime.

If having a bright and even smile is appealing to you, modern cosmetic treatments can make it easier than you think. A discussion with the dentist can answer any questions or concerns you may have and give you a good idea of what’s possible for improving your smile.