We all want a great-looking smile that we can be confident in and proud of. Most people will agree they wish they had whiter teeth when asked about their overall dental hygiene. There are lots of things you can do at home to reduce tooth staining and even whiten your teeth. Going to the dentist will always provide better results, but there is more to cosmetic dentistry than just whiter teeth. Let’s take a look at some of the different types of dental cosmetics.
Cosmetic Teeth Whitening is Growing in Popularity
The most common procedure a cosmetic dentist will do is in-office whitening. Commonly referred to as “teeth bleaching”, this procedure will whiten and brighten your teeth from stains and discoloration caused by eating habits, genetics, life, and length of time. This is far more effective than over-the-counter whiteners and can be done under dentist supervision at the dental office or home (when familiarized). A benefit of getting your teeth whitened at the dentists is there won’t be gaps in the coverage area. When done at home whitening strips can leave gaps in the coloration changes and also can damage enamel or gums when done incorrectly. If you have serious tooth staining you want to get to the dentist.
Cosmetic Veneers Work when Traditional Whitening Won’t
Not all teeth will respond to usual teeth whitening procedures. In this case, dental veneers can be an option to improve tooth coloration. They are a porcelain or composite shell that is custom fit and cemented on the visible side of the tooth. These can be used to treat cosmetic conditions such as minor tooth crookedness, discolored teeth that don’t respond to whitening treatments, chipped teeth, gaps in teeth, or more. Consult your dentist to go over your options.
Cosmetic Dental Crowns and Caps
These are custom-fitted to fit over an entire tooth after being fitted and sent to a lab for creation by your dentist. Typically made of porcelain or acrylic that is fused to metal to withstand normal use. These can be used to treat misshapen teeth, severely decayed, chipped, broken, to cover gaps in teeth, or have large cavity fillings. Consult your dentist for options.
Cosmetic Dental Implants
Dental implants may be necessary if you have missing or badly damaged teeth. Typically made out of porcelain or titanium, they are surgically implanted into the jawbone at the site of the missing tooth. Not all missing teeth are suitable for dental implants as a measure of jawbone must have filled in where the tooth used to be. Only your dentist and a dental x-ray can determine this. Dental implants act as permanent teeth and the color is matched to your current teeth by your dental surgeon.
Cosmetic Tooth Bonding
This is the process where tooth-colored materials are bonded (attached) to the discolored tooth or teeth. This procedure is typically used to treat a badly stained tooth that won’t respond to traditional whitening practices. Also, it can be used in cases where teeth are broken and chipped, only your dentist will know for sure so be sure to get into your dental office.
Cosmetic Orthodontics and Teeth Realignment
Straightening teeth isn’t just for kids or teenagers. In fact, cosmetic orthodontics and tooth realignment procedures are more common for adults than ever before. This is due to a few factors including the accessibility of invisible braces like Invisalign many adults prefer. Things like gaps in teeth, overbites, underbites, lisps, and crooked teeth are all procedures people are looking for at any age. Do not be ashamed of wanting straighter teeth at any age! Invisalign and Invisalign Go offer great options for adults who need cosmetic orthodontic treatment.
Finding Cosmetic Dentistry in Coney Island NY
We are proud to be the #1 Coney Island Cosmetic Dentist location here in Kings County, NY. Proudly helping over 4,000 patients achieve the smile of their dream every single year. Please give us a call and let’s start your journey to great teeth today.