When people want to improve their smile, a cosmetic dentist may be able to recommend one or more procedures to fix imperfections. Some people have one complaint about their smile, while others may have multiple complaints. Methods to improve the appearance of teeth and gums range from simple and quick to complex and time-consuming.
A cosmetic dentist has the training to perform a wide variety of procedures to improve someone's smile. The dentist can make recommendations based on the patient's issues, goals, and budget.
Teeth whitening is one of the most common and popular methods for improving the look of one's teeth. Professional whitening results in better and longer-lasting results because the whitening agent is stronger.
Many people do not like their smiles because of crooked and misaligned teeth. Before doing any other procedure, a cosmetic dentist will often fix this issue first. There are multiple options for teeth straightening, including traditional metal braces, lingual braces, ceramic braces, and clear aligners. The method used depends on various factors, including aesthetic goals, the severity of the misalignments, and the responsibility level of the user. The straightening time may range from eight months to a few years.
Dental bonding is an option for those who have imperfections such as chips, cracks, stains, or gaps in between the teeth. In this procedure, the dentist applies a tooth-colored material to the tooth to cover up the issue.
Getting dental veneers is a similar procedure to bonding, but it consists of applying thin layers of porcelain to the front of the teeth. Unlike bonding, which does not damage the structure of the tooth, veneers require that a good portion of enamel be removed. This allows the veneer to fit properly. However, veneers last longer than dental bonding if they are cared for properly.
Not all smiles are improved by fixing the teeth. Sometimes the issue is with the gums. The gum line may be uneven, or the patient may have excess gum tissue, which causes the teeth to look short. With gum recontouring, the cosmetic dentist removes the tissue and reshapes the gum line. This results in teeth that look like they are normally sized as well as a gumline that is balanced and even.
If someone is missing one or more teeth, not only does this greatly affect the smile, but it also has long-term consequences if they are not replaced. Dental implants are often chosen as the replacement procedure because they look and function like natural teeth, and they prevent bone loss in the jaw.
This procedure consists of inserting titanium rods directly into the jawbone and then attaching tooth-colored crowns on top. This is a lengthy process, as there are multiple steps, and time is needed for the affected areas to heal before moving on to the next step. The average time for completion is eight months to one year.
What factors does a cosmetic dentist consider when recommending which procedures the patient should get?
One major consideration is the patient's complaint or goals for a better smile. This may be obvious, such as missing or misaligned teeth, or it may be more subtle, such as a tooth near the back of the mouth that is discolored. Other considerations include the shape of the patient's face, the amount of time the patient is willing to wait for improvements, and the patient's budget.
Is making cosmetic changes worth it?
Considering that many cosmetic dentistry procedures are designed to change aesthetics and not function, some people may wonder if it is worth the cost and time. However, the majority of people who have at least one cosmetic procedure done are extremely happy with the results.
An improved smile does wonders for one's confidence, and this improves a person's overall self-esteem. However, some cosmetic procedures are not reversible, so it is smart to have the dentist review the advantages and disadvantages of each procedure so the patient can take the time to make an education decision.
When it comes to improving one's smile and boosting confidence, a cosmetic dentist has a variety of procedures from which to choose. The methods chosen depend on numerous factors, and it is a good idea for a patient to find out the pros and cons of each one before proceeding.
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