Just as many women rely on makeup to help them put their best face forward, cosmetic dentistry can help make you feel more confident about your smile. From discoloration to diastema (the term for gaps between the teeth), there are cosmetic treatments available to help erase, improve or hide esthetic concerns, so you can get on with life smiling more confidently. There’s no reason to settle for flaws in your smile, after all, when cosmetic dentistry can help give you a beautiful smile!
Are there ways to remove deep-set stains?
Yes. Professional teeth whitening can help remove even deep-set stains and other forms of discoloration. In the rare case staining is so deep professional whitening will be ineffective, for instance if the discoloration is being caused within the tooth, there are other ways a cosmetic dentist can help, such as using bonding or veneers to cover the stains.
What should I do if there are gaps between my teeth?
Both cosmetic bonding and porcelain veneers can be used to hide gaps between the teeth. Bonding can be completed very quickly, usually in less than an hour, as the dentist sculpts resin onto the teeth to improve their shape and symmetry. Veneers rely on custom-made porcelain enhancements, which are affixed to teeth and offer even longer-term smile enhancement, thanks to porcelain’s durability and stain-resistance.
Invisalign clear aligner trays are another way to correct alignment issues inconspicuously. Though this will take longer than other forms of cosmetic treatment, it can be the best option in many cases, especially if alignment issues are causing any functional issues in addition to the esthetic concerns.
How long will cosmetic improvements last?
Cosmetic treatments vary in longevity. Whitening can last for several months or years if you keep up an excellent oral hygiene routine, including professional cleanings, and limit consumption of staining foods and beverages.
Bonding can also provide long lasting results, but the resin used for this is not as stain-resistant as veneers, which can last more than a decade with proper care. Choosing what treatment is best for you will depend on a variety of factors including your lifestyle, your budget, and your desires for your smile both now and moving forward.