Common Cosmetic Dental Procedures

For most of us, we don’t think about visiting the dentist unless it’s time for our annual check-up or we need dental treatment like fillings. In fact, many dentists also offer cosmetic dental procedures. Cosmetic dentistry can improve your smile or correct issues caused by accidents, such as missing or cracked teeth. The best cosmetic dentists can help you get the smile of your dreams. When you choose to have cosmetic dental procedures, there are a lot of options. Here are some of the most common cosmetic dental procedures, and why you might consider them. 

 

Tooth Bleaching

Tooth bleaching or whitening is one of the most common cosmetic dental procedures. Its popularity is largely thanks to how quick and simple the process is. If you only need a bit of brightening and no major work, this is ideal. Bleaching is also often pretty affordable. 

Having your teeth whitened can be done in your dentist’s office or at home. If you opt for at home, you should get your bleach from your dentist, as the bleaching products that are available over-the-counter are usually not as effective and won’t deliver the results that you’re hoping for. 

Enamel Bonding

Enamel bonding is a common cosmetic dentistry option for those with heavily stained or chipped teeth. The composite bonding material that is used in enamel bonding is the same kind used for white dental fillings. This bonding material is used as it is very moldable, so you can be shaped into the ideal shape for your teeth, for a natural look. 

While enamel bonding works well for some, it does have a drawback. Enamel bonding doesn’t last as long as dental veneers, so these are often more popular. 

 

Dental Veneers

Dental veneers are a thin porcelain shell that is fitted over the surface of the tooth. The enamel of your tooth is filed down gently, and an impression over your teeth is taken. This impression is then sent to a dental lab so your custom veneers can be created. 

If you have deep staining on your teeth that cannot be totally removed through bleaching or whitening, or you have chipped or fractured teeth after an accident or similar incident. 

 

Invisalign Braces

Braces are usually thought of as something for kids and teenagers, but actually, many adults choose to have braces to correct issues with their smiles. Invisalign braces are the most popular choice for adults, as they are very discreet. The more discreet style is ideal, as it stops you feeling like a teenager with a mouthful of metal, so you can still feel grown-up and professional while improving your smile. 

Braces are not only a choice that you can make to improve the way that your smile looks. They are also often used to correct problems with alignment, which can cause issues with chewing, or even pain like headaches. 

Cosmetic dentistry is a popular option and can be used to give you more confidence, whether you want whiter teeth or to repair a chipped front tooth.