Cosmetic Dentistry: 4 Beautifying Procedures

One of the first things a person notices when they meet someone new is their teeth. It's unavoidable unless one party fails to smile, which can give an even worse impression than bad teeth. Of course, it isn't fair to judge one another based on superficial appearances. Crooked, discolored teeth aren't even signs of poor oral health in most instances. But whether it's fair or not, the fact remains that everyone does it, even if it is subconsciously. Knowing this, many people are ashamed or embarrassed about their teeth. They hide them at every opportunity. Cosmetic dentistry offers solutions to those people, allowing them to be proud of their smiles for the first time.

Veneers:
If you have that one problem tooth, a veneer may be the cosmetic dentistry solution that meets your needs. It is in many respects a facade. A faux-tooth adheres directly to your real one, disguising it from the world. Think of it like wearing a particularly convincing toupee (except, of course, the veneer doesn't come off at night). For those people who have one tooth that is discolored or misshapen, a veneer could be exactly the right application to fix the problem.

Bonding:
A tooth can get cracked or chipped in an instant. One nasty car crash, a football accident, or even an unexpected fall can be enough to do the damage. Thankfully, bonding procedures can make your smile look as though nothing happened. The dentist will apply a material made from polymer directly to the tooth and then sculpt it to the right shape. The process isn't perfect and will need to be replaced after several years, but it makes a wonderful solution in the meantime and is one of the most convincing cosmetic dentistry procedures.

Implants:
While not the exclusive domain of cosmetic dentistry, dental implants are typically seen as a significant upgrade from a traditional denture. Instead of having a replacement tooth simply sit in the gap left by your natural teeth, a dental implant is drilled into the jawbone itself, giving you a permanent and sturdy artificial root for your replacement tooth. Not only is it virtually undetectable, it functions just like your natural teeth and can prevent further problems like shifting teeth and issues with your gums.

Tooth Whitening:
If there is one procedure that cosmetic dentistry is most known for, it is probably tooth whitening. While over the counter kits abound, nothing you buy at the local store can compare with getting your teeth professionally whitened.