Are you looking on information about how a cosmetic dentist can improve the appearance of your smile? A study conducted by the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry showed that about 50 percent of adults think that a smile creates a lasting impression on a first meeting. More people are beginning to look for ways to beautify their smile and look flawless due to the popularity of social media.
Nowadays, cosmetic dentistry is intertwined with medical dentistry. A cosmetic dentist finds a way to perform tooth restorations and other dental procedures cosmetically and aesthetically. With the materials available today, any lost, decayed or degraded teeth can be repaired and restored to look natural and still be highly functional.
4 Treatments from a cosmetic dentist
The following are treatments available from a cosmetic dentist to enhance one’s smile.
- Teeth whitening
One of the most common concerns people have about their smile is its color. Teeth whitening, sometimes called teeth bleaching, is a fast and harmless way to improve the teeth’s appearance by eliminating their surface stains and discoloration.
Although at-home kits can be procured from stores, they are not as effective and durable as in-office teeth whitening treatments. The concentration of the bleach is lower, and the results are not always significant. Several factors are responsible for teeth yellowing or discoloration, and the treatment has to be specifically designed for the stain. A cosmetic dentist will evaluate the teeth to determine the best approach for whitening.
- Dental bonding
Dental bonding is performed to fix chipped or decayed teeth, alter the shape of the teeth or close spaces between teeth. The treatment involves applying a strong plastic resin on the tooth. Using a special light, the dentist will then cure the resin which is customized to match the natural color of the teeth. The result is a better-looking smile that appears natural. The duration of the treatment depends on the number of teeth involved, but about 30 to 60 minutes are required per tooth.
- Enamel shaping
Also known as enameloplasty, enamel shaping is similar to dental bonding and is used to correct small chips, unevenly shaped teeth and irregular enamel. In contrast to enamel, however, enamel shaping is permanent since the process requires shaving or stripping to remove part of the enamel’s structure.
- Dental veneers
Also called porcelain veneers or dental laminates, the veneer is the most popular cosmetic treatment choice for patients wishing to correct misaligned, chipped or unevenly shaped or spaced teeth. Veneers are thin, custom-made shells created from resin or porcelain to cover the front surface of the tooth. They are applied with a bonding material and customized to match the tooth’s color. Although it is entirely dependent on personal preference, porcelain is stronger and more resistant to stains than resin and gives off a more natural luster.
In conclusion
To get the best results, consult a cosmetic dentist with expertise and experience. It is important that you receive treatment from someone who is fully trained in the latest techniques and materials.