Modern cosmetic dentistry offers a variety of procedures that can significantly improve your smile’s appearance. In this article, we talk about the most common cosmetic dentistry options, from whitening to smile makeovers.
Cosmetic Dentistry Options Explained: From Whitening to Smile Makeovers
Let us look at the most common cosmetic procedures, such as teeth whitening, dental bonding, veneers, and smile makeovers:
Teeth Whitening
Teeth whitening is one of the most common cosmetic procedures as it is minimally invasive, safe if done responsibly, and can deliver dramatic changes in the appearance of your smile in one visit to a dental office. Professional whitening procedures are effective at dealing with stains and discoloration and can make your teeth up to 8 shades whiter.
Professional teeth whitening can be done in a dental office or at home, using whitening trays provided by your dentist. The best candidates for teeth whitening are patients with good oral health, without active gum disease or tooth decay.
Since teeth whitening uses a bleaching agent (most commonly hydrogen peroxide), it can pose risks for people with weakened enamel and gum inflammation. However, your dentist considers your oral health and can adjust the strength of the whitening solution to make the procedure safe.
Over-the-counter whitening solutions do not accommodate your specific goals and needs and can cause permanent enamel damage. Therefore, we recommend professional teeth whitening to avoid potential oral health consequences.
Dental Bonding
Dental bonding uses resin composite (the same material that is used for dental fillings), which is applied to the areas of your teeth that need alteration. Bonding can be used to solve the following cosmetic issues:
- Stains and discoloration
- Minor gaps between the teeth
- Minor chips and cracks in the teeth
- Dental bonding material can be closely matched to your tooth color, so the alterations look natural. It can last around 7 years with proper care.
Dental Veneers
Dental veneers are typically made of porcelain or, less commonly, resin composite and look like thin shells. Similar to dental bonding, veneers are used to mask cosmetic imperfections on your teeth. However, veneers cover the entire front surfaces of your teeth and can therefore offer more extensive alterations, including adjustments to tooth shape and length. Also, porcelain veneers are more durable and stain-resistant compared to dental bonding.
The application method for dental veneers is more invasive than bonding, as the teeth must be filed down to fit the veneers comfortably. This process makes veneers an irreversible procedure, as the teeth can not survive without their enamel, which is partially removed in preparation for veneer application.
Smile Makeovers
A smile makeover is a complex of procedures aimed at improving the appearance of your smile. The exact procedures you have for your smile makeover depend on your personal goals and your oral health. Smile makeovers can include several of the following procedures:
- Teeth whitening
- Dental bonding or dental veneers
- Gum contouring and other “gummy smile” treatment procedures
- Dental implants
- Orthodontic treatments (braces or Invisalign)
Some of these procedures are relatively quick and require 1 to 2 dental visits (for example, teeth whitening, bonding, and veneers), while dental implants and orthodontic treatments typically require months to achieve desired results.
Get a Cosmetic Procedure at The Smile Artists LA
If you are considering cosmetic procedures, do not hesitate to make an appointment with an experienced dentist at The Smile Artists LA. Our specialists will carefully assess your oral health and recommend procedures that best meet your goals and needs. We are looking forward to your visit.
 "The Smile Artists")