Cosmetic dentistry - is it for you?

There are plenty of types of cosmetic dentistry that can help you have a brighter, more beautiful smile. So, how do you know if cosmetic dentistry is for you?

Do you have misshapen or crooked teeth?
If your teeth are misshapen cosmetic dentistry could really do a lot for you. Veneers are a great choice for misshapen or crooked teeth. They are thin porcelain sheets that are bonded to the front of the tooth. Once on, they greatly transform the appearance of the teeth. Most often, veneers are used to correct small imperfections on the teeth. If you have slightly crooked teeth, a veneer can make them appear straighte, and in some cases can be used in place of braces. However, very crooked teeth and missing teeth are not candidates for veneers.

Are your teeth discolored?

If your teeth are not as white as you would like them to be, then cosmetic dentistry in the form of in office whitening is for you. Tooth whitening is perhaps the most common and most popular form of cosmetic dentistry. Thousands of people get their teeth whitened professionally by a dentist each year. So, while you can purchase whitening products at your local drugstore, cosmetic whitening from a dentist is more effective, better, faster, and safer. Not to mention, it will whiten up to 8 shades, as opposed to the 2 or 3 shades over the counter products whiten. When it comes to ridding your teeth of discoloration, the type of whitening you get will depend on how deep your stains are. The most common types of whitening are bleaching trays, and laser whitening. Bleach trays are for slightly discolored teeth, yellow hues, not browns. Bleach trays are custom-fit trays made by the dentist then filled with a bleaching gel by you at home and worn for a specified period of time. Laser whitening is best if you want faster results, or if you have deeper, more serious stains. Laser whitening takes about an hour. Your teeth are painted with a special gel, and then the dentist will shine a laser on them to whiten them. Some people opt to get veneers for permanent whitening, since they are resistant to staining, although that is an expensive option.

Do you have broken or missing teeth?
If you have broken or missing teeth cosmetic dentistry is for you. Dental implants are one option, and are enjoyed by many as they act, feel, and can be used just like a real tooth. Another option if your tooth is not missing completely, but is simply broken, or if it has been drilled out and filled, is a crown. A dental crown is made of resin or porcelain and is used to replace a tooth that is cracked, worn, or broken. A crown covers the entire visible area of the tooth. It helps restore functionality as well as looks.

Do you have large spaces or gaps in your teeth?

Author: Dr. Joseph Marcius

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