If you believe that changing your teeth could improve the look of your smile, there are cosmetic dental applications that may be able to help. Cosmetic dentistry focuses on improving the appearance of the teeth. Here are two cosmetic dental procedures that can transform your smile:
Dental Bleaching
One of the most noticeable things when a person smiles is the color of his or her teeth. Over time, teeth can accumulate stains from the food and drink that you ingest. In addition, if you smoke, staining may come from tobacco pigments. Your teeth can even become discolored when you take certain medications.
Dental bleaching or teeth-whitening uses peroxide-containing gel to brighten the teeth. If the dental bleaching is performed in a dental office, the gel is applied by a dentist or dental hygienist. Thus, in-office whitening is quite safe. A special protective coating may even be applied to your gums to prevent undue irritation from the whitening solution.
In addition, in-office whitening is effective. A special ultraviolet light is often used to intensify the level of whitening achieved through the application.
Home whitening kits are also available. These kits can be applied in the comfort of your home. However, although they are effective, they are not typically as strong as in-office whitening applications.
To help your teeth maintain their new white color, your dentist may prescribe whitening toothpaste or a special whitening rinse. Still, it may be best to avoid the over-consumption of heavily pigmented food and drinks, such as black coffee or tea.
Veneers
One of the most versatile cosmetic dental products is the veneer. Veneers are thin slivers of porcelain or resin that can be bonded to the teeth to change their appearance. The veneers can be used to correct dental staining, chips, cracks and gaps. Once the veneers are applied, the underlying imperfections are not visible. Veneers can even be used to correct permanent discoloration that dental bleaching cannot correct, such as discoloration caused by medications or congenital defects.
Veneers can last 10 or more years, so the improvement to your appearance is long-lasting.
If you would like to change the appearance of your teeth, there are many cosmetic dental applications from which to choose. However, only a dentist can advise you of the best procedures to meet your individual needs. Be sure to schedule an appointment with a dentist in your area today for a full dental assessment.
Share21 January 2016
Toddlers should see a dentist for the first time by the age of twelve months or by the time their first tooth comes in. But if you are a parent with toddlers anything like mine, the prospect of going to the dentist (let alone anywhere!) can be pretty intimidating. My kids were a handful growing up. They had tantrums any time we would have to sit in a waiting room, and they refused to get in the dentist's chair during their first few visits. So, I had to employ a professional to help me make the transition to finally getting them in that dental chair without all the screaming and crying. I know I'm not the only parent in this situation, so I decided to share the information I've learned with others who can use a little help. You can find all my advice right here on these pages!