Celebrities are often known, and celebrated, for their fabulous set of teeth. At one dental clinic, you don’t have to be a celebrity to have a show-stopping smile. In fact, these days, cosmetic dental treatments aren’t only for the rich and famous. Anyone who is interested in improving his or her smile can benefit from cosmetic dentistry.
Cosmetic dentistry includes a variety of services that can address missing, broken, or damaged teeth as well as improving discoloration and crooked teeth. The following article includes six of the most common cosmetic treatments.
Veneers
Veneers are often synonymous with a “celebrity smile.” The thin strips of porcelain are affixed permanently to the front of teeth to give the appearance of a straighter, whiter, more perfect smile. Once thought to be too expensive, many patients are learning that veneers are an affordable and effective way to cover a wide variety of imperfections in the smile.
Tooth Bonding
Dental bonding is a method of filling small gaps or fixing chipped teeth. The tooth-colored bonding material can be matched to blend in seamlessly. It can be performed in a single office visit and can last for many years.
Crowns
Crowns can be used after a tooth has undergone treatment for decay or trauma. The porcelain “cap” covers the entire visible surface of the tooth, improving its appearance and protecting it from further damage. Dental crowns can also be attached to an implant for patients who are missing a single tooth.
Teeth Whitening
Teeth whitening is one of the most effective, and least expensive ways to improve the appearance of the smile. While it does not address problems such as damaged or broken teeth, it can take a dull, yellow smile to a vibrant white in very little time. There are generally two types of professional teeth whitening: in-office and at-home. In-office teeth whitening transforms the smile in just a single appointment, while at-home whitening uses custom fitted trays and gel to whiten the smile over the course of a couple of weeks.
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Dentures
Missing teeth can greatly impact the appearance of the smile. Dentures are an affordable and natural looking way to replace missing teeth. They greatly improve the appearance of the smile, restore functionality, and can even restore youthfulness to the face by eliminating sunken facial contours.
Implants
Dental implants are a permanent solution to missing teeth. Unlike dentures, which can be removed, dental implants replace the missing tooth root. Once in place, the implant fuses with the jawbone to create a stable support for a dental prosthetic such as a crown or denture. Implants look, feel, and function like natural teeth.
In some cases, patients may opt for multiple cosmetic treatments, which is often referred to as a smile makeover. With time and patience, smile makeovers can truly transform the smile.
When considering any cosmetic dental treatment, it’s important to find a qualified dentist. Always ask for before and after photos and ask any questions you may have during the consultation.
