The Most Common Cosmetic Dental Procedures and their Benefits

Are you unhappy with the appearance of your teeth? Cosmetic dentistry could help. Cosmetic dentistry is the term used to refer to dental procedures that are undertaken with the primary purpose of improving the appearance of the teeth, although many treatments have functional benefits too. Today, having a great smile is a highly desirable attribute and countless people are turning to cosmetic dentistry to help them achieve it. 

Here are some of the most common cosmetic dental procedures and the benefits that you can expect if you choose them to help transform the appearance of your smile.

Tooth Whitening

Tooth whitening is the most common elective dental procedure in the world. Although there are lots of over the counter products that claim to be able to whiten your teeth, only in-office whitening, performed by a professional, can deliver the bright, white Hollywood smile that is so desirable right now and long-lasting results.

The process is simple and non-invasive. The gums and mouth are protected using special equipment before high-grade bleaching agent is pasted onto the teeth. A special light is then aimed onto the teeth to start the chemical reaction that will cause stains and discoloration to break down. 

Tooth whitening benefits:

• Non-invasive
• A simple way to transform the appearance of your smile
• Help teeth to look healthier and more attractive
• Long-lasting results

Dental Bonding

Dental bonding is a popular alternative to tooth whitening as it can cover stains and discoloration as well as other minor imperfections in the appearance in the teeth. The process involves a special resin being pasted onto the teeth which your cosmetic dentist then manipulates as needed to enhance the appearance of your teeth. It can be applied to one or multiple teeth. Once your dentist is satisfied, the resin is hardened using a special light and the teeth polished. 

Dental bonding benefits:

• Non-invasive
• A customized treatment that can address stains, chips, gaps and misshapen teeth
• Can be completed in a single appointment
• Adds a layer of protection to teeth

Dental Veneers

Dental veneers, also called porcelain veneers owing to the material from which they are made, are thin shells that are applied to the outer faces of the teeth. Each veneer is custom designed for each patient and each tooth of each patient to ensure an entirely bespoke transformation. Veneers can cover a range of cosmetic issues. However, their application is a two-step process. Firstly, the enamel of the affected tooth needs to be filed down a little so that the veneer fits properly. Then molds are taken so that the veneer/s can be made, and patients need to attend a second visit to have the finished veneer/s applied. 

Dental veneers benefits:

• Minimally invasive procedure
• Porcelain veneers are stain-resistant
• Veneers can also improve the color of teeth as well as covering imperfections, closing gaps between the teeth and making teeth look thicker or taller
• Adds an additional layer of protection to the teeth 

Invisalign

Invisalign is a popular new orthodontic treatment that overcomes many of the complications caused by wearing braces. The treatment involves the use of clear aligners which gently and gradually apply force to the teeth to move them into better alignment, improving their appearance as well as supporting your oral health. This is because teeth that are poorly aligned are more likely to be affected by decay and gum disease. The aligners are removable but must be worn in order for at least 22 hours each day. However, because they are clear they are more discreet than braces. Their removability means that you can also eat what you like and brush your teeth as normal, without the worry of damaging your braces. 

Invisalign benefits:

• Comfortable 
• Invisible appearance 
• Better oral health
• No compromises on what you can eat
• Fewer dental appointments than are needed with braces
• Beautifully straight teeth

Dental Implants

Dental implants have revolutionized the way in which missing teeth are replaced. They have a titanium post, which takes on the role of an artificial root. It is implanted into the jaw where the bone grows around it to secure it in place. A custom crown is then attached to the implant to replace the visible element of the missing tooth. Although very much a functional solution, an increasing number of patients are choosing to have unattractive teeth removed and replaced with a dental implant or gaps in their smile filled with them. 

Dental implant benefits:

• The closest alternative to natural teeth
• Superior comfort
• No pressure on surrounding teeth
• No more gaps in the appearance of your smile
• Helps patients to retain their facial structure which can diminish with lost teeth
• Long-lasting

If you would like to discover more about cosmetic dental procedures, please don’t hesitate to contact our expert cosmetic dentistry team today.