Everyone deserves to feel proud of their smile, but when your teeth are damaged, misshapen, or discolored, that can be easier said than done. Cosmetic dentistry has the ability to make over a smile and boost confidence. Whether it involves a single treatment or a full-scale smile makeover, cosmetic dentistry can be a life-changing experience for people who are bothered by their smile.
If you wonder whether cosmetic dentistry is right for your personal dental goals, Dr. Jennifer Chambers and Dr. Cory Chambers of Cobblestone Park Family Dental have the answer. Let’s explore what cosmetic dentistry entails, the services we offer, and the reasons why these services might be right for you.
What is Cosmetic Dentistry?
Cosmic dentistry is a type of dentistry dedicated to improving the aesthetics of your teeth rather than just the function. While most dental procedures focus on preventing decay, fixing damaged teeth, or maintaining oral health, cosmetic procedures can whiten, straighten, or improve the overall appearance of your teeth. However, cosmetic dentistry isn’t just about looking good. It’s about feeling good too.
Why get cosmetic dentistry?
If you find yourself stifling your smile or ducking out of photographs because you’re embarrassed of your teeth, you might be doing more harm to yourself than you think. Studies have shown that there is a strong link between smiling openly and overall happiness. Your mind and body are more linked than you might think, and when you hide your most natural expression of joy, you prevent yourself from feeling the full extent of your happiness. Think of a beautiful smile as more than just something to make you more attractive. It’s an investment in your well-being.
When you decide to improve your smile, you and our dentists will identify the area(s) of your smile that cause you to feel self-conscious. Then, we will recommend the treatments that are most likely to create your ideal-looking smile. Let’s explore a few common examples of cosmetic dentistry procedures.
Should I get tooth-colored fillings?
The silver and gold-colored fillings you sometimes see on older people’s teeth are a thing of the past. While they got the job done, they were easily noticeable and unsightly. Today, we use a composite resin material that matches the color of your teeth. These fillings let you smile freely without worrying that other people will notice the work you’ve had done.
Should I get a veneer or a crown?
Are tiny cracks or fractures keeping your teeth from looking their best? Patching up your damaged teeth with filling material or placing a crown or veneer over the tooth not only improves its appearance, but also protects it and can prevent additional damage.
What is a veneer?
If you have a chipped tooth, a gap between teeth, or misshapen teeth, dental veneers offer a simple way to protect your mouth from further damage while giving a natural appearance.
Veneers are thin porcelain coverings that we fix over the front part of teeth. Usually, the process takes two visits. We first remove a small amount of enamel to make room for the veneer, then we make an impression of your teeth. We’ll send the mold off to a lab so they can make a veneer that matches your tooth exactly. When you come back after a few days, we’ll attach your custom veneer. This procedure will make your smile look great and protect your teeth from more damage.
What is a crown?
Like veneers, crowns are porcelain coverings for chipped, misshapen, or otherwise damaged teeth. The main difference between these two tools is that while veneers only cover the front of your teeth, crowns cover your entire tooth. This makes the process a little more involved.
Just because they have the same basic function doesn’t mean they are interchangeable. Because crowns cover more area, they’re more suitable for teeth that are more thoroughly damaged. Veneers require a strong structure to adhere to, and some damaged teeth can’t provide that. Our dental team will be able to tell you whether a crown or a veneer is right for you.
Should I get my teeth whitened?
Perhaps your teeth are strong and free of damage, but they look yellowed or dingy. The effects of aging and the consumption of highly pigmented foods and beverages can gradually darken the teeth, giving the entire smile an aged look. Professional teeth whitening brightens teeth almost instantly, giving the smile a healthy and youthful quality. If you prefer to whiten at home, we can create a special take-home kit for you to use.
Should I get Invisalign?
Slightly crooked or crowded teeth detract from an otherwise attractive smile. Minor spacing problems can often be corrected with Invisalign, a system that uses clear plastic aligners to gradually shift the teeth into the desired position. Many adults prefer Invisalign to traditional braces because the aligners are removable, comfortable and discreet.
(Note that more severe orthodontic problems may require traditional metal braces or similar options.)
Book a Cosmetic Dentistry Consultation with Our Team
To schedule an appointment to discuss your cosmetic dentistry treatment options with our team, please call (405) 603-8520 or email Cobblestone Park Family Dental today.