Do you have noticeable flaws in your smile that you’ve thought about correcting? Cosmetic dentistry offers many possibilities when it comes to improving the appearance of your teeth and gums. If you’ve been wondering if you are a good candidate for this branch of oral healthcare, here are some common procedures and how to tell if they’d be a good solution for you.
Cosmetic Dentistry: Am I a Good Candidate?
If you’re considering cosmetic dentistry, the first thing you’ll need to do is schedule a consultation appointment with your dentist. At this visit, the health of your teeth and gums will be evaluated, and a treatment plan will be created to address your issues. To be a good candidate for any procedure your teeth and gums will need to be in good health. If they are not, your dentist cannot perform a cosmetic treatment on them just yet; you’ll need to have any issues corrected first.
If you are determined to be healthy, your dentist will then explain your options and go over pricing and any other questions you might have.
Available Cosmetic Dentistry Treatments
When it comes to specific treatments, some are better options for addressing certain issues. Here are some popular procedures and how they can help you achieve your cosmetic dentistry goals.
Veneers
Veneers are thin porcelain shells that cover your existing, healthy teeth. They can change the shade, the size, and even the shape of your teeth. They can also address minor spacing issues, and they’re stain resistant too! Your new smile can last for up to 20 years with proper care, however because your dentist must remove a small amount of enamel from your teeth beforehand, you will always need to have veneers going forward.
Metal Free Restorations
If you have dark colored metal fillings that are visible when you open your mouth, replacing them with metal free restorations can make your teeth look more natural and beautiful. This treatment lasts about ten years with proper care and can make a big impact on the appearance of your smile.
Dental Bonding
If you have teeth that are chipped, worn, or discolored, you may benefit from dental bonding. Using the same materials as used in metal free restorations, your dentist can rebuild your tooth, so it looks complete again. It will be fully functional, and nobody will know it’s not 100 percent real. This treatment is one of the most affordable cosmetic dentistry options available, but it only lasts around five years.
Zoom! Whitening
Zoom! Teeth Whitening can be done at your dentist’s office in about one hour, or you can buy a take-home kit to do it from anywhere. The office-based procedure can remove up to eight shades of discoloration in just one treatment, while the home version can do the same thing in about two weeks. Take home kits come with custom-fit trays to use during treatment, and you can get refills for the gel if you need touch ups. Though the results of these treatments are permanent, your teeth can become re-stained with time and your diet, so you may want to repeat it eventually.
Gum Recontouring
If you have a “gummy” smile or if your teeth appear to be too small, gum recontouring could help. This treatment uses a soft tissue laser to permanently remove excess gum tissue and make your teeth look larger. The results last a lifetime, and because it uses laser technology, it is very comfortable, and you won’t even need sutures when you’re done!
Remember, cosmetic dentistry is an excellent option for qualified patients who would like to improve the appearance of their smile. If you have healthy teeth and gums, you are likely a good candidate but schedule a consultation with your dentist to learn more about your options.
About Dr. Whitaker
Dr. Katherine Whitaker is a caring, and compassionate dentist with an eye for artistry and an additional certification in laser dentistry, making her an excellent choice for cosmetic dentistry procedures like gum recontouring and many more. If you are considering improving your smile, let Dr. Whitaker customize a treatment plan that will achieve all your objectives and help you reveal your most gorgeous grin yet!
To schedule your cosmetic dentistry consultation, please visit our website or call Corbin Family Dental Care today at 606-523-1415.