A beautiful smile can make a huge difference in the way people perceive you, and it could even boost your confidence enough to help you land that job, find a mate or take those chances in life. But some of the things that keep many from having that dream smile are gaps between teeth, misalignment or uneven gums, as well as stains, discoloration or missing teeth. Cosmetic dentistry offers an array of treatments to address these issues and bring balance and harmony to your smile.
Unlike dental treatments like crowns and fillings, which are considered to be medically necessary, most cosmetic procedures are elective. But they can still offer restorative benefits in that they repair damaged teeth and improve their appearance, thereby improving oral health and function for years to come.
Some cosmetic treatments that can improve your oral health include dental implants, sedation dentistry and gum contouring. Others, such as porcelain veneers and clear braces, are designed to bring balance and symmetry to your smile. Aesthetic dentistry usually follows along the lines of symmetry and harmony, which is based on the Greek philosophy of beauty that stresses lines (symmetry) and same colorings, shapes and heights.
When choosing a dentist, it is important to research their practice and reputation in the local area. Look for testimonials, reviews and before-and-after photos to get a feel for the dentist’s skill level and approach. You should also schedule consultations with multiple dentists before making your final decision. This will allow you to discuss your goals openly and gauge the dentist’s communication style.
It is important to clarify your goals during the initial consultation with a cosmetic dentist so they can design a treatment plan that best meets your needs and objectives. For example, if you are considering whitening your teeth to get rid of deep stains caused by coffee and tea, be sure to tell the dentist exactly what you hope to achieve from the procedure.
Other cosmetic procedures that can improve your smile and oral health include tooth restorations, such as fillings and bonding, which replace and restore damaged or decayed teeth. Porcelain veneers are thin porcelain coverings that can be bonded to the front of your teeth to change their color, shape and size. These can give you the brighter and straighter smile that you want without having to undergo more invasive procedures.
The most popular and well-known cosmetic dental services are teeth whitening, composite bonding, porcelain veneers, teeth straightening and dental implants. Each procedure is custom-designed to meet your unique requirements. Before undergoing any cosmetic dentistry procedure, you should consider the time and expense involved, your overall oral health, and your personal lifestyle. Be sure to follow any pre-appointment instructions given by the dentist, such as avoiding certain foods or medications. If you are a smoker, you should stop smoking before your procedure to reduce the risk of post-treatment complications. With proper care, your new smile will last a lifetime.
