Do You Need Cosmetic Dentistry?
Many people are unaware of the myriad benefits of modern cosmetic dentistry. Many patients mistakenly believe that cosmetic dentistry refers to unnecessary procedures. In reality, cosmetic dentistry can affect much more than your teeth. Cosmetic dentistry can give you more confidence, improve your self-image, and ultimately make it possible for you to enjoy life more and take advantage of more opportunities.
Nearly all of us have had a reason to consider cosmetic dentistry at some time or another. Some of the most common reasons include:
- Broken or chipped teeth
- Unsightly amalgam fillings
- Discolored or stained teeth
- Gaps between the teeth
- Misaligned or misshapen teeth
There are a wide variety of cosmetic dentistry procedures available to address these concerns:
Dental Veneers are an excellent way to address chipped, broken, or discolored teeth. These thin, porcelain shells are applied over an existing tooth to hide imperfections. Each veneer is custom fit to accommodate a patient’s individual mouth shape.
Professional Tooth Whitening allows you to get immediate, impressive results to counteract stains and tooth discoloration. While there are over the counter tooth whitening products, in-office professional tooth whitening is the most effective method. Your dentist uses a high-powered bleaching solution, augmented by an LED light to speed up the process. Patients are also given custom whitening trays and whitening gel to take home to achieve the best possible result.
Dental Implants can replace missing teeth permanently by surgically implanting a titanium post into the jaw as an artificial root. A replacement tooth is then attached to the post and acts exactly like a natural tooth. This highly effective method of replacing teeth produces an attractive, low maintenance solution to the unsightly and often uncomfortable gaps left by missing teeth.
Bridges are another way to address missing teeth. In this case, a “bridge” is attached via crowns to the teeth on either side of the gap with a false tooth placed in between. The crowns anchor the false tooth in place and provide a seamless replacement for the missing tooth.
Reshaping & Bonding can address patients with misshapen or chipped teeth. A misshapen tooth can be reshaped and then dental bonding – the application of tooth-colored resin that is painted onto a tooth – allows the dentist to modify unsightly teeth. This non-invasive treatment is a highly effective way to address unattractively shaped teeth.
Many of these procedures actually address very real health concerns. Straight teeth are much easier to clean than misaligned or broken teeth. Crooked teeth can be difficult to floss and brush effectively, making it more likely that dental problems will occur. Missing teeth can cause teeth to shift and create gaps. These gaps can collect food and make it uncomfortable for you to eat your favorite foods. Missing teeth can also contribute to bone loss, which can make your face look older and create long term issues.
Furthermore your smile can have an effect on your life and your happiness. More than half of all people say that your smile is the first thing they notice about you. Business owners often claim that a confident smile in an indicator for whom they should hire for a position. If you have unsightly teeth or difficulty laughing, eating, and talking because of your teeth, you will be less likely to feel confident. This self-consciousness about your mouth can actually limit your opportunities, preventing you from finding the right job or even finding the right life partner.
Cosmetic dentistry can help overcome these issues, and there are so many ways your dentist can help to address your concerns and give you the confidence to smile without worry! Discuss anything about your mouth that causes you discomfort or a lack of confidence with your dentist and take a step toward a happier, healthier smile.
How We Can Help
At Hollymead Dental Arts, we specialize in Cosmetic Dentistry in Charlottesville, VA. We can assist you in determining whether these or other treatments are suitable for you. Don’t hesitate to contact us and begin your journey for a smile that you’ll be ready to show off!