Almost everyone has at least one imperfection in their smile they would like to fix, and cosmetic dentistry includes a wide range of treatments that can address many common dental flaws. While only a qualified dentist can determine which treatments you qualify for, understanding how a few popular procedures work can give you a clearer image of your goals for the process. Here’s a brief guide to three incredible cosmetic procedures that may be a great way to help you achieve your ideal smile.
Cosmetic Dental Bonding
Minor chips, cracks, stains, and gaps are common dental imperfections that can distract observers from an otherwise beautiful smile. Fortunately, cosmetic dental bonding is a quick, painless, and noninvasive treatment that can conceal these defects with a lifelike restoration. To perform this procedure, your dentist will place a small amount of tooth-colored composite resin on the targeted defect, shape it to match the natural curves of your grin, and harden it with a specialized ultraviolet light. With good hygiene, the results can last for three years or more.
Teeth Whitening
Many people have stubborn dental stains or discoloration that will not respond to conventional oral hygiene methods, and professional teeth whitening treatments from your dentist can address these issues in brief timeframes. These treatments come in the form of an in-office procedure that takes about an hour or a take-home kit that takes about two weeks to complete. In either case, your teeth will be up to eight shades brighter and your results can last for several years or more if you take great care of your smile.
Porcelain Veneers
Porcelain veneers are thin ceramic shells used to conceal mild to severe stains, cracks, chips, gaps, and misshapenness, and they can completely transform a smile in as few as two appointments. While this process requires the teeth receiving veneers to be permanently modified, this will only be done after the patient receives an appropriate anesthetic to render the whole procedure painless. Veneers can stay in excellent condition for fifteen years or more if they receive excellent care.
Cosmetic dentistry may be the best way to achieve a smile you can feel confident in. Consulting with your dentist can help you determine the best procedures for you.
About the Author
Dr. Shauna Soltani earned her dental degree at the University of Colorado School of Dental Medicine and has completed many hours of continuing education coursework. She is proud to be a member of the American Dental Association, the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry, and the Academy of General Dentistry. Her office in Denver offers general, restorative, emergency, and cosmetic dentistry. To schedule your cosmetic dental consultation, contact her office online or dial (720) 608-7770.
