Have you ever wondered why so many movie stars have seemingly flawless smiles? The answer is probably cosmetic dentistry. Cosmetic dental treatments have become accessible to the average dental patient, and you probably know more people who have had them than you realize. Since almost everyone has some aesthetic flaw in their smile that they’d like to correct, you might be curious about what these treatments can do for you. Here are a few common cosmetic dental treatments and what you need to be a good candidate for them.
Teeth Whitening
Everyone wants a shiny white smile, but years of exposure to foods and drinks that are high in pigments or dyes can leave their mark on your teeth. Overindulging in items like coffee, tea, red wine, sports drinks, colas, berries, and tomato sauce can cause unsightly stains or discoloration in your enamel.
Thankfully, dentists offer professional teeth whitening treatments that are far superior to whitening products you can find in the store. These treatments can be completed in about an hour in the office and can leave your teeth up to ten shades brighter. To qualify for these treatments, your mouth will need to be free of gum disease and tooth decay, so you may need to receive some restorative dental work before getting the procedure.
Porcelain Veneers
Porcelain veneers are an incredibly versatile cosmetic treatment that can address a variety of concerns such as chips, cracks, stains, gaps, and even misalignment in some cases. These thin porcelain shells are designed to cover up troubled teeth, concealing flaws and reshaping them into more ideal forms. Any tooth decay and gum disease will need to be resolved before you can receive veneers, and teeth grinding can complicate wearing them. However, only a qualified dentist can make the definitive call if porcelain veneers are right for you.
Cosmetic Bonding
If you’re looking for a fast and easy way to address minor chips, cracks, stains, or gaps, cosmetic bonding may be the right treatment for you. This treatment is generally very affordable and can be completed in minutes during a routine dental appointment.
During this procedure, your dentist will apply a small amount of tooth-colored composite resin to a dental flaw before shaping the putty-like substance until it matches the natural curves of your teeth. They will then harden it using a special light and send you on your way. The process is painless, requires no anesthesia, and involves no recovery time. To qualify for this treatment, your teeth will need to be free of decay and gum disease.
Cosmetic dentistry can help you achieve a more beautiful smile. Consulting with your dentist can help you determine which treatments can be right for you.
About the Author
Dr. Spiro Saati earned his Doctor of Dental Medicine at Boston University Goldman School of Dental Medicine and serves as a member of the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry and the American Dental Association. He has also served as chairperson of the Northshore District Dental Society. His office in Peabody, MA offers general, restorative, emergency, and cosmetic dentistry such as the treatments listed here. For more information on how you can qualify for cosmetic dentistry, contact his office online or dial (978) 531-2185.