We only get one set of teeth, and it’s important that we take care of them. However, despite their efforts toward maintaining proper dental care, many people still remain unsatisfied with their teeth or smile. In a survey conducted through the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry, over 99 percent of adults believed that a smile is a key factor in social success. If you are not happy with your smile, you may have anxiety about social relationships, career advancement, or a fear of photographs. The following are some of the most common procedures that patients request for cosmetic dentistry. Perhaps learning more about these popular options will inspire you to take a big step forward in achieving the perfect smile today.
Tooth Whitening
Almost everyone strives to have whiter teeth. Although we can find toothbrushes, toothpaste, mouthwash, and whitening treatments over the counter, nothing compares to the whitening effects that a professional treatment session can yield. Professional whitening is minimally invasive and can alter the color of your teeth significantly, making them up to nine shades whiter. Instead of paying hundreds of dollars to purchase an arsenal of whitening products, seek professional whitening treatments that will ultimately save you money and get you effective, long-lasting results.
Invisalign Aligners
Many people make it to adulthood without ever having had braces. For some people, braces were unnecessary during childhood. In other cases, people notice that their teeth shift and change positions over time. Unlike braces, Invisalign uses a system of reshaping mouthguards that slowly realign a patient’s smile over time. The cost of Invisalign aligners is comparable to braces, but this system for cosmetic dentistry goes unnoticed to others and is removable during mealtimes. Invisalign aligners tend to achieve results after about a year of treatment.
Porcelain Veneers, Bonding, and Crowns
Instead of braces, another popular option for reshaping a smile is through porcelain veneers, bonding, and crowns. When patients select this option, a porcelain tooth, fragment, or crown is placed upon a prepared tooth in order to improve its appearance. Patients who are unhappy with the shape of their teeth or who are unable to whiten select this option for a more dramatic dental overhaul. It’s important to note that veneers will permanently alter your underlying teeth that act as a foundation for the veneers. Do note that veneers tend to last from five to fifteen years, so they would also require replacement over time.
Gum Reshaping and Contouring
Although some patients maintain tooth whitening and dental alignment as their primary concerns, others may be more preoccupied with the shape of their gum lines. Gingival contouring is a procedure in cosmetic dentistry that reshapes the gum line, eliminating a gummy smile. Treatment for gum contouring can include lasers therapy, orthodontic care, and surgical repositioning of both the gums and jawline. Consult with a dentist, periodontist, or orthodontist about your options for reshaping your gums. Some cases may be treatable with simple, non-invasive procedures. However, others may require more serious surgery and increased recovery time.
Dental Implants
Patients who are missing teeth and searching for a natural-looking, permanent solution for their smiles often consider dental implants. Dental implants typically use a carefully engineered, titanium tooth root that becomes surgically bonded into the jaw. As the implant heals, it fuses to the bone along the jawline and creates a supportive foundation for a dental crown. After the implant has healed, your dentist will place a crown above the titanium root in order to replace the missing tooth. Implanted teeth are durable; the teeth themselves can last up to fifteen years, and their titanium bases can last a lifetime.
If you are missing teeth, or find that your smile needs something – but you’re simply not sure what, the first step is to contact us at Implantation Dental Center. When you contact our dental office in Plantation, we will happily schedule a preliminary consultation with you to discuss your concerns and review the best avenues for treatment. Dr. Hervas believes that everyone deserves to have an award-winning smile. If we can help you achieve that goal, we have succeeded in our mission.
