You deserve a whiter smile. It’s time to start taking care of yourself and get the dental procedures you need to make that happen. Discover the most popular dental procedures for a whiter smile so you can make an informed decision about what’s best for you.
Teeth Whitening
Dr. Kami Hoss, a San Diego, CA dental professional, says this is the most popular cosmetic dental procedure. Teeth whitening can be done at home using various over-the-counter products or in-office by a dentist. In-office teeth whitening is more expensive but will produce better and faster results.
If you opt for at-home teeth whitening, it’s essential to follow the instructions carefully to avoid damaging your teeth. Some at-home teeth whitening products use bleaching agents that can cause tooth sensitivity, so it’s necessary to consult with your dentist before beginning any at-home treatment.
In-office teeth whitening is a safe and effective way to achieve dramatic results in a short amount of time. Your dentist will use a bleaching agent to lighten your teeth, and you can expect to see results after just one treatment. However, you may need to return for additional treatments to maintain your new, brighter, whiter smile.
Porcelain Veneers
Dr. Kami Hoss says porcelain veneers are thin shells of porcelain that are custom-made to fit over your existing teeth. They correct various cosmetic dental issues, including stained or discolored teeth, chipped or broken teeth, misshapen teeth, and gaps between teeth.
Veneers are irreversible because some of your natural tooth enamel must be removed for the surfaces to adhere correctly. Once they are affixed, though, porcelain veneers can last for many years with proper care.
Porcelain veneers are one of the most expensive cosmetic dental procedures, so they may not be an option for everyone. However, they can produce dramatic results and give you the bright white smile you’ve always wanted.
Dental Bonding
Dental bonding is a less expensive alternative to porcelain veneers. It involves using a tooth-colored resin material to bond to your existing teeth and cover up any flaws. The advantage of dental bonding is that it can be done in one office visit and does not require the removal of any tooth enamel.
Dental bonding can correct various cosmetic dental issues, including stained or discolored teeth, chipped or broken teeth, misshapen teeth, and gaps between teeth.
The results of dental bonding are not as long-lasting as porcelain veneers, so you may need to have the bonding material touched up or replaced every few years.
Inlays And Onlays
Inlays and Onlays are used to repair damage to your teeth that are too extensive for a simple filling but not severe enough to warrant a full crown. They are made of either composite resin or porcelain and are custom-made to fit your specific needs. Inlays and Onlays can restore cracked or chipped teeth, repair large cavities, and fill in gaps between teeth.
Like veneers, inlays and Onlays are irreversible because some of your natural tooth enamel will need to be removed to be appropriately affixed. However, with proper care, inlays and onlays can last many years before needing to be replaced.
Inlays and Onlays are more expensive options than fillings, but they can provide a more aesthetically pleasing result. If you are looking for a way to repair damage to your teeth and improve your smile, inlays and Onlays may be the right choice.
How To Know If You Need Cosmetic Dentistry
Dr. Kami Hoss says if you are unhappy with how your teeth look, you may be a candidate for cosmetic dentistry. However, you must consult your dentist to ensure that cosmetic dentistry is the right choice for you.
Your dentist can assess your individual needs and recommend the best course of treatment. If you have any underlying dental health issues, such as tooth decay or gum disease, your dentist will likely recommend treating those issues first before proceeding with cosmetic dentistry.
In some cases, simple changes, such as whitening your teeth or getting porcelain veneers, can make a significant difference in how your smile looks. However, other circumstances may require more extensive treatment, such as dental implants or full mouth reconstruction.
If you are considering cosmetic dentistry, be sure to consult with your dentist to find out if it’s the right choice for you. Your dentist can assess your individual needs and recommend the best course of treatment. You can achieve the smile you’ve always wanted with the proper treatment.
Cost Differences Between Procedures
The cost of cosmetic dentistry can vary depending on the procedure you choose. Simple teeth whitening or bonding techniques are typically less expensive than more extensive procedures, such as veneers or implants.
Dr. Kami Hoss says the best way to get an accurate estimate of the cost of your procedure is to consult with your dentist. Your dentist will be able to assess your individual needs and provide you with a detailed estimate of the cost of your chosen procedure.
Conclusion
Cosmetic dentistry can improve the appearance of your teeth and give you a whiter smile. Many different cosmetic dental procedures are available, and the best one for you will depend on your individual needs. Consult your dentist to determine if cosmetic dentistry is the right choice. You can achieve the smile you’ve always wanted with the proper treatment.
