One of the most obvious signs of happiness and gauges of self-confidence is the presentation of your smile. If your smile is not perfect, you may not feel as confident in sharing that smile with others. So, instead of hiding your smile from the world, what are some treatment options available that can rejuvenate your smile and increase your self confidence? Cosmetic dentistry is a branch of dentistry that aims to improve the appearance of one’s teeth and/or mouth.This type of dentistry includes, but is not limited to, bondings, composite fillings, dental implants, porcelain work, and teeth whitening. These treatment options can replace missing and/or broken teeth, correct uneven teeth, and many other aspects of the physical appearance of one’s teeth and mouth. But what are these options specifically, and how can the cosmetic dentist near you help you? Let’s dive into each one!
1. Bondings
A dental bonding is the treatment that uses composite material to reshape and/or add to a patient’s teeth to improve the physical appearance of such. In as little as one single dental visit and no anesthesia, you can be treated with a semi-permanent option that enhances the look of your smile with ease.
Some of the reasons that you may get this procedure done are as follows:
- Fixing broken teeth
- Treating decaying teeth or teeth with cavities
- Closing spaces or gaps between teeth
- Protecting roots exposed in receding gums
- Restoring discolored teeth to their natural shine and color
This procedure of installing dental bondings begins by the dentist isolating the area that will be treated in preparation for bonding. This area is then etched and a solution is applied to the same in order to increase the bonding capability of the tooth to the bonding agent. Then, the bonding resin material is applied to the area in layers which is dried with a specialized light treatment. Once the area is dry, it is buffed and smoothed to look similar to the surrounding teeth, providing a natural look.
2. Composite Fillings
Almost everyone will have at least one cavity in their life. Composite fillings, made of many different materials, fill the once decayed area of teeth with a natural look and as little as one visit to the dentist.
There are several reasons to get this procedure done, including cavities:
- Chipped, cracked, and/or broken teeth
- Closing gaps between teeth
- Worn down teeth
Composite fillings are installed by first cleaning the area fully and removing any decay from the area if necessary. The composite material will then be put into the area, filling the area with a natural-looking substance that is shaped and molded to look as natural as possible. This treatment can induce some sensitivity, but that usually wavers after the recovery process. The end result is a natural filling, mostly unseen by the naked eye!
3. Dental Implants
Dental implants are a great option for patients who have missing teeth. Implants some in single tooth options, multiple teeth options, and whole mouth options. These implants are either drilled into the jawbone or sit just on top of the jawbone, and they replace missing teeth to complete the smile of patients with a natural addition.
There are several perks to getting dental implants:
- Replaces one or more teeth within compromising other teeth
- Treats pain resulting from teeth shifting into gaps
- Improves bite and chewing ability of patient
- Supports any existing bridges or dentures
When a patient receives dental implants, depending on the size of the implant and location, there are several dental visits involved. The initial visits will include x-rays and other scans and reviews of the area in which the implant will be placed. The area is then numbed, and the implant is screwed into the jawbone or just under the skin on top of the jawbone. This must have time to heal prior to the artificial tooth/teeth being applied onto the implant. This will provide a permanent solution to missing teeth, completing the patient’s smile without an obvious change to the color or shape of the patient’s teeth.
4. Porcelain Dental Work
There are several types of porcelain dental work that can be done to improve the look and feel of your teeth:
- Crowns: Porcelain crowns are durable, natural-looking coverings for teeth that strengthen and protect said teeth for many years.
- Bridges: Porcelain bridges are great options for those patients looking to replace more than one tooth with a permanent dental appliance.
- Inlays: Porcelain inlays are a great option for patients with deep dental decay or broken fillings and/or teeth who want a more conservative option rather than crowns.
- Onlay: Porcelain onlays are similar to porcelain inlays, but one or more chewing cusps are also restored.
- Veneers: Porcelain veneers are put on the front of teeth to improve the look, feel, and smoothness of a patient’s smile.
5. Teeth Whitening
When your teeth are discolored, it may be embarrassing. However, with upgrades in dental technology, teeth whitening services can rejuvenate your smile and bring forth its natural brightness!
You may want to discuss teeth whitening options with your dentist if you are experiencing some or any of the following:
- Yellow or brown (stained) teeth due to oral health or health habits
- Normal wear of outer tooth layer
- Stained teeth due to certain medications
Your smile can make or break your self-confidence. If you are wondering what your options are for fixing your smile, give Guillot Dental a call to discuss the details and devise a plan for bringing your smile back to life!
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