In today’s world of dentistry, there is an ever-growing selection of methods available for not just repairing and preserving existing teeth, but also a broad range of options for cosmetically improving their appearance. Gone are the days of braces, fillings, crowns, and bridges being the only thing that can be done to misaligned, damaged, or otherwise imperfect teeth. Today there are ways to whiten your teeth, to correct minor imperfections, to fix misalignment invisibly, and even to contour the gums themselves. Below we’ll touch on a number of the most popular cosmetic dentistry techniques on the market today!
Teeth Whitening
With energy drinks, coffee, soda, and tea being part of the everyday diet of millions of people all over the United States there has been a corresponding rise in teeth that have become stained through the use of these stimulants. Thankfully dental technology has kept up and provided a number of innovative whitening techniques that can be used to combat it. From over-the-counter methods available in your local pharmacy to special varieties only able to be administered by your dentist, there are lots of ways to make those stains be gone.
Porcelain Veneers
A veneer is a thing coating used to obscure imperfections and smooth out surfaces. In dentistry, the term refers to the use of thin, carefully made porcelain caps that can help produce a bright and beautiful smile without long and grueling orthodontic treatment. It’s only available for minor misalignment, but it can also repair minor chips, cracks, hard to eliminate discoloration, and more. Veneers share a temporary nature with whitening and tend to only last on average 10 to 15 years.
Invisible Braces
If there is anything kids dread it’s having a mouth full of metal for their peers to tease them about. Even adults can get a little nervous when talking about braces comes up, but that’s where Invisalign comes in. Invisalign and other forms of invisible braces make it possible to achieve all the results of standard wire braces with an invisible device you wear for 22 hours a day. Even better you don’t have to give up your favorite foods and you get 2 hours a day where you don’t have to wear it!
Gingival Contouring
If you’ve ever found yourself being self-conscious about how much gum you expose when you smile, you’re certainly not alone. Through a process called gingival contouring, it’s possible to reduce the amount of gum you show, the exact methods vary based on your individual need.
If you’ve reached a point in your life where cosmetic dentistry is an option you’re looking into, pick up your phone and contact Dr. John Batlle at his Lake City, FL office. Southwest Family Dentistry has been working hard to meet the cosmetic, orthodontic, and general dentistry needs of its community and would be proud to add you to its family of patients. Don’t spend another day hiding your smile, invest in cosmetic dentistry and see a whole new you!