Your Olney Dentist Explains Cosmetic Dentistry

You’ve probably heard of cosmetic dentistry, but do you really know what it entails? Many people are surprised to learn the many ways that their less-than-perfect smile can be improved. Cosmetic dentistry offers many ways to make your teeth look younger and healthier. Learn more about how cosmetic dentistry can help you achieve the perfect smile in today’s blog, below.

Cosmetic dentistry can give you a reason to smile!

Your Olney Dentist Explains Cosmetic Dentistry

Whitening

One of the most well-known applications for cosmetic dentistry is teeth whitening. During this quick and painless procedure, your Olney dentist will use a solution made of hydrogen peroxide to remove surface stains from your teeth and leave you with a brighter, whiter smile. The process generally requires a number of office visits and takes anywhere from 1-6 weeks, depending on the level of whiteness you’d like to achieve.

Bonding

Bonding involves filling gaps in your teeth or changing their color by using a material designed to look just like your natural teeth. It is a great solution for closing small gaps between teeth and can also be used to cover an entire tooth in order to change its color or shape. Unfortunately, bonding is quite susceptible to staining so you should take care to avoid foods and beverages that could discolor your new tooth.

Veneers

If you have teeth that are oddly shaped, discolored, chipped, or crooked, veneers can quickly come to the rescue. Your Olney dentist will bond a thin piece of plastic or porcelain to your existing tooth, creating a natural looking yet flawless smile. Veneers are much less likely to discolor than bonding and they have a significantly longer lifespan. The procedure is also quite simple and most often, no anesthesia is needed.

Crowns

Because crowns are expensive and somewhat difficult to install, they tend to be considered a last resort in cases where other solutions simply will not work. Crowns can be used to reshape teeth that have experienced significant deterioration or other damage that cannot be fixed with bonding or veneers. While they are a significant initial investment, they are expected to last the longest of any cosmetic dental procedures.