If you are looking to improve your smile, you may be thinking of trying cosmetic dentistry. This type of dental work focuses on covering or treating certain issues to change the appearance of one's teeth, gums, or both. Most people have at least one complaint about their smile, ranging from missing, misshapen, and misaligned teeth to discoloration. A cosmetic dentist can recommend one or more procedures that can correct the issues in your smile and help increase your confidence.
Cosmetic options can range from simple and quick to more complex and invasive, and the cost of these procedures can run the gamut to fit any budget.
Professional whitening is by far the most popular cosmetic dentistry procedure, and it can get rid of bad stains on teeth. Not only does the process produce quick results, but it also only takes one office visit, is non-invasive, and lasts a long time with proper care.
If it has been a while since your last professional cleaning, the tartar and plaque may be removed first before the dentist starts the whitening procedure. During the procedure, the dentist begins by protecting the gums with a shield or sealant material. Then, the whitening product is applied to the teeth. A UV light or laser helps to activate the bleaching agent for about 15 minutes. The whitening gel is then removed. These steps are repeated one or more times depending on the desired shade.
The results of professional teeth whitening can be customized to your particular shade and often lasts up to two years. However, the results will not last as long if you regularly consume dark-colored beverages like coffee, red wine, and tea, or if you use tobacco products.
If you have discolored, chipped, cracked, or slightly crooked teeth, you may want to consider dental bonding or veneers. These cosmetic dentistry procedures also help to cover gaps or areas of damaged enamel. Although both bonding and veneers are applied to the front of the teeth, there are differences between the two.
For dental bonding, a dentist applies layers of composite resin and then hardens each layer with a special light. After the final layer is hardened, the teeth are trimmed and adjusted to the desired size and shape. Bonding typically does not last as long as veneers. However, the enamel is not taken off for the procedure, so tooth bonding is reversible.
For veneers, the dentist applies thin shells made of tooth-colored porcelain. To bond the veneers to the front of the teeth, the dentist must remove a fair amount of enamel, which makes the procedure permanent. Veneers usually have a longer lifespan than bonding. However, both veneers and bonded teeth can be fragile, so if you choose either of these, you should avoid biting or chewing on hard objects or food.
Dental implants are artificial tooth roots that create a sturdy foundation for removable or permanent replacements for missing teeth. To replace one or more teeth, the dentist inserts rods directly into the jawbone and then attaches crowns on top. These crowns function and look like real teeth. This procedure takes months to complete, but implants can last a lifetime if you take care of them. Benefits of implants include the following:
Everyone has something they want to correct about their teeth. Whether it's missing teeth, discoloration, or a crooked smile, choosing cosmetic dentistry is a good option if you want to improve some aspect of your smile. Your dentist will discuss your concerns, goals, and budget before recommending a cosmetic treatment plan tailored to your individual needs.
Request an appointment here: https://www.palmbeachdentistry.com or call Palm Beach Dentistry at (561) 225-2057 for an appointment in our Delray Beach office.
Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Cosmetic Dentist in Delray Beach, FL.
If you are thinking of visiting a cosmetic dentist, you should consider certain factors before choosing a dental professional. This article contains tips to guide your decision. The services provided by a cosmetic dentist can improve your oral health and smile appearance dramatically. Simple procedures that brighten your teeth can be good for your self-esteem…
As a cosmetic dentist, we regularly answer questions about our practice and our approach to dental care. Many patients want to know what the difference is between a cosmetic dentist and a general dentist. To begin with, there is not much of a difference when it comes to completing dental school. All dentists start with…
Individuals that have issues with their smile can consider dental veneers as they are a cosmetic dentistry treatment worth looking into. Veneers are teeth covering made from thin sheets of porcelain. The dentist can use them to correct cosmetic issues such as a chipped tooth, as well as discoloration on the teeth. This article covers…
People who are diligent with oral hygiene may still experience tooth decay or damage that requires dental restorations. Even what may appear to be minor damage should be addressed and repaired by a dentist. Not treating chipped, cracked, or missing teeth can cause serious oral health problems that may otherwise be prevented with simple dental…
Dental crowns can be used to fix various cosmetic and structural issues that affect the teeth. Also known as caps, dental crowns are some of the most versatile restorations used in dentistry, and they can last up to 25 years when properly maintained.Getting a dental crown attached to a tooth typically requires the dentist to…
The time and effort that go into fitting a dental crown suggest a permanent restoration. Maybe it is the fact that installing a dental crown often requires multiple dentist visits. It could be the permanence that comes with the removal of enamel before the placement of a crown. Dental crowns that sit on dental implants…