Your smile is one of the first things other people notice about you, making it a crucial part of any good first impression. Unfortunately, decades of use can leave their mark on your grin, resulting in unsightly defects such as chips, cracks, stains, and discoloration that can make it difficult to proudly show off your teeth. Luckily, a number of cosmetic dental treatments can address these issues so a patient can enjoy a more beautiful smile and a more youthful appearance. Here are two cosmetic dental treatments and how they can help you achieve a younger-looking grin.
Cosmetic Dental Bonding Can Address Cracks and Chips
Teeth go through a lot of pressure over the years, and the stress of chewing as well as that of bad habits like using them to open packages or bottles or chew on inedible items such as ice, paperclips, or writing utensils can damage your enamel. Luckily, cosmetic dental bonding can conceal defects like cracks, chips, stains, or gaps in minutes with no anesthesia during a routine dental appointment.
To perform cosmetic dental bonding, your dentist will apply a little tooth-colored composite resin to the defect and shape the putty-like substance so that it conceals the flaw while matching the shape and texture of your tooth. They will then harden the resin with a specialized light, resulting in a beautifully lifelike restoration that can last for up to seven years if it receives excellent care and hygiene.
Transform Your Troubled Smile with Veneers
If you’re considering veneers, you’re far from alone. Many movie stars and famous media personalities have used these appliances to beautifully transform their smiles by concealing defects like chips, cracks, stains, and gaps. Veneers are thin shells typically made from porcelain or another high-quality ceramic material so that they mimic the ideal appearance of natural enamel, and they are designed to be permanently cemented over teeth to conceal flaws and reshape the smile.
Placing veneers typically takes at least two appointments. The placement process is rendered completely painless by a local anesthetic, and the patient may receive sedation treatment if they need more help staying comfortable. While you’ll have to wear temporary veneers after the first appointment, your final set will be customized to perfectly match your smile and placed during your second visit. After any final adjustments, you’ll be ready to show your new smile off to the world.
Getting older doesn’t mean you have to settle for a less beautiful smile. Consulting with your dentist can help you find out if you can be a suitable candidate for cosmetic dental treatments.
About the Author
Dr. Henry Diep earned his dental degree at Midwestern University and stays abreast of the latest developments in his field through his membership in the California Dental Association. He takes great pride in addressing the oral health needs of the people of Hayward so they can enjoy life with more smiles and less discomfort. His office offers general, restorative, emergency, and cosmetic dentistry. To schedule your cosmetic dental consultation, contact his office online or dial (510) 314-8426.