Thanks to its exploding popularity, you might be wondering what exactly cosmetic dentistry is. Maybe you’ve heard that it can beautify your smile, or that you’ll feel much more confident in your teeth after treatment, but that doesn’t give you much to go off of!
Don’t worry, you won’t have to go deep-diving through the internet to find a detailed answer to your question. Simply keep reading, and you’ll get a better idea of what cosmetic dentistry can do for you.
The Big Question: What is Cosmetic Dentistry?
Essentially, “cosmetic dentistry” is an umbrella category for dental treatments that aim to improve the appearance of your teeth. Some individuals feel weighed down by stains, cracks, or other dental imperfections. For them, cosmetic dentistry offers a way to conceal these flaws and restore confidence in their smile.
Who Should See a Cosmetic Dentist?
Cosmetic dental treatments are versatile and numerous. They’re able to help patients in multiple different situations, and you might be interested if:
- Tooth decay has negatively impacted your teeth’s appearance
- Dental damage has you thinking twice before smiling
- Crooked or misshapen teeth make your grin look inconsistent
- You have uncomfortable gaps due to missing teeth
- Dental staining is yellowing your otherwise pearly whites
Basically, if you’re worried about the way your teeth look, cosmetic dentistry could be a good fit for you!
What Treatments Are Available?
Enhancing your smile can be an exciting thought, so you’d probably like to know what types of treatments are available. Here are some common dental cosmetic services:
- Veneers: Permanent yet thin porcelain shells that fit overtop the front-facing portion of your teeth to conceal their flaws.
- Lumineers: The even thinner, removable version of veneers.
- Dental bonding: Tooth-colored resin that can be molded over chips, cracks, and even gaps for a quick and minimal aesthetic fix.
- At-home whitening: The most convenient and effective way to whiten stained teeth – simply take home a professional kit and follow the instructions.
- Metal-free restorations: A modern take on fillings and crowns that uses tooth-colored materials instead of metal amalgams.
- Clear aligners: The professional adult’s best friend! Clear plastic trays allow patients to straighten their teeth without anyone knowing they’re wearing orthodontics.
With so many options, it can be hard to know which one to choose. That’s where your dentist comes in! Schedule a consultation, describe what your dream smile looks like, and let them know which treatments you’re interested in. They’ll use their professional expertise to help ensure you’re satisfied with your cosmetic dental treatment results.
About the Author
Dr. David Thomas graduated from the University of Pittsburgh with a dental doctorate. He enjoys forming positive connections with his patients and wants to get to know you and your smile so he can provide the best treatment possible. If you’re interested in cosmetic dentistry, Dr. Thomas will listen attentively to your goals and work with you to create a treatment plan you’ll love! To contact his office, call 206-244-4622.
