If you’re frustrated by flaws in your smile, you’re not alone. Having stained, chipped, or crooked teeth is enough to leave anyone feeling self-conscious or unworthy. While many people are aware that cosmetic dentistry exists, they may not pursue treatment. It’s often believed that only the rich and famous can undergo elective procedures intended to enhance their appearance. Fortunately, that’s not the case. If you want to improve your smile, read on to learn about 3 ways your dentist can help!
Treatment #1: Teeth Whitening
From models to movie stars, you can find perfectly bright white smiles everywhere. If your teeth aren’t as sparkly as they once were, it can impact your sense of self-worth. Although many commercially available toothpastes, kits, and strips claim to lighten them, they often contain abrasive ingredients that cause tooth sensitivity.
Thankfully, your dentist has access to professional-grade products like ZOOM! Teeth Whitening. You could potentially lighten your grin by 8 shades in a single in-office visit. If that doesn’t suit you, ask about a take-home kit. Many providers offer at-home solutions like Opalescence along with customized trays to achieve high-quality results from the comfort of your own home. This is one of the simplest and most cost-effective ways to upgrade your teeth.
Treatment #2: Veneers
Veneers are thin shells made of durable porcelain that are attached to the front of your teeth. They’re a versatile solution that can hide chips, cracks, discoloration, and slightly gapped or crooked teeth. Plus, they’re coated with a glaze durable enough to resist potential damage and can provide the underlying tooth with an added layer of protection.
It’s worth noting that for these covers to line up correctly, your dentist must remove a thin layer of enamel from your tooth. This defensive outer layer doesn’t grow back meaning that the change is irreversible. You’ll need to have veneers, or some other restoration, in place continuously to keep it safe. If you’re not ready for that commitment then veneers may not be the right solution for you. That said, they can last for decades with the right care, making them an excellent long-term choice.
Treatment #3: Cosmetic Dental Bonding
Your dentist uses this technique to mend several aesthetic issues like broken, stained, misshapen, misaligned, or widely spaced teeth. To do so, they apply a tooth-colored composite resin material to your pearly white and mold it into the perfect shape. Then they harden it in place with a special curing light, so it bonds with the enamel. It can often be completed in a single appointment and is often considered a cost-effective alternative to veneers. Once the process is complete, you’ll have a newly perfected grin with no one the wiser.
Contact your dentist today for a consultation, and soon you could have the star-worthy smile you’ve always dreamed of!
About the Author
Dr. Tavi Henry is dedicated to providing top-quality dental care with a focus on respect and transparency. He earned his DDS degree at the University of Colorado School of Dental Medicine and has since completed more than 400 hours of continuing education. Now, he’s a member of several organizations including the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry. He uses state-of-the-art technology to provide a wide array of services that can upgrade your grin. If you’d like to schedule an appointment, you’re welcome to request one on the website or by calling (303) 984-1400.