Cosmetic dentistry is an umbrella term that covers a variety of dental treatments designed to whiten, brighten, reshape, straighten out, and address defects in teeth for aesthetic reasons. These procedures can bolster a patient’s confidence by giving them a smile they can be proud to show off, which can open up new opportunities at work and in the social scene. Here are a few cosmetic dental treatments and how they can beautify teeth.
Teeth Whitening Brightens Like Lightning
The teeth chew through a lot over decades of use, and regular exposure to foods and beverages that are high in pigments and dyes can leave their mark on your smile. Common culprits include tea, coffee, red wine, berries, tomatoes, and dark-colored sauces. Thankfully, professional teeth whitening treatments deliver results superior to those of store-bought whitening products and can be completed in about an hour at the dental office. One of these procedures can leave a smile up to eight shades brighter.
Smile Proud and Clear with Dental Veneers
Veneers are the open secret behind the flawless smiles of many of your favorite Hollywood stars. These thin shells made from porcelain or ceramic are designed to mimic the ideal appearance of real teeth and are used to conceal defects such as chips, cracks, gaps, and stains. After numbing the teeth being treated and removing a small amount of enamel, the dentist will cement the veneers on top to create a beautiful new smile. This procedure takes at least two appointments to complete, and the veneers can last for up to fifteen years before needing replacement.
You’ll See People Responding After Cosmetic Bonding
If you have a few troublesome chips, cracks, gaps, or stains and don’t want to deal with anesthetic treatments or extensive dental procedures, cosmetic bonding may be for you. Using a small amount of tooth-colored composite resin, your dentist will fill in or cover up these defects before shaping the material to match the natural curves of your teeth. This treatment can be completed in minutes without anesthesia during a routine dental appointment and is also quite affordable.
Cosmetic dentistry can be an investment in your self-confidence that pays dividends in the professional and social spheres. Consulting with your dentist can determine if any of these treatments can be suitable for you.
About the Author
Dr. Rhiannon B. Presley earned her dental degree at the Texas A&M Baylor College of Dentistry and continues her education through postgraduate coursework to stay abreast of the latest developments in her field. She is proud to serve as a member of the Texas Dental Association and the Academy of General Dentistry. Her office in Fort Worth, TX, offers general, restorative, emergency, and cosmetic dentistry such as the treatments listed here. To book a cosmetic dental consultation, contact her office online or dial (817) 242-5564.