Even a subtle change to your smile can make a huge difference in the way you look, the way you feel about yourself, and the way others perceive you. With a smile makeover, your cosmetic dentist can help you identify the right mix of dental procedures that will give you the desires results and a high degree of joy and satisfaction.

Depending on your smile makeover goals, your cosmetic dentist may recommend several treatments, including

Teeth Whitening

To lighten teeth that have been discolored or stained by age, food, medications, smoking, and other factors. In-office professional teeth whitening offers immediate results, while at-home techniques take several weeks.

Bonding

This outpatient procedure involves the application of tooth-colored plastic putty, known as composite resin, to the surface of broken, chipped, or discolored teeth. The treatment can also be used to fill in gaps between teeth, and protect tooth roots that have been exposed following gum recession.

Cosmetic recontouring

Also referred to as enamel shaping, this procedure involves slight contouring or controlled enamel removal to repair overcrowded or uneven teeth. For example, a tooth that appears to be longer than the others can be corrected by removing some of the enamel until the desired size and shape is achieved. Only a small amount of enamel is removed to avoid sensitivity and pain.

Orthodontic Treatments

Most patients opt for the modern treatments for straightening crooked, overcrowded, or misaligned teeth to improve your smile. Clear braces and aligners are less visible and even more effective than metal brackets and wires for treating some kinds of orthodontic problems. The duration of the treatment typically takes 9 to 18 months depending on the severity of the problem, age, and health of your gums, teeth, and supporting bone.

Tooth Replacement

Options include:

• Dental Implants – These are artificial teeth that comprise a post that is surgically placed into your jaw to act as the tooth root, which then supports a crown above the gum line via an abutment that links the two.
• Dental bridges – this option features an artificial tooth with crowns attached on either side that are bonded to the adjacent teeth on either side of a gap to anchor the tooth replacement.
• Dentures – these are removable dental appliances that feature a complete set of artificial teeth and plastic gum. They are inserted in the upper and/or lower jaw for patients who have no teeth, and are held in place by soft tissues and muscles in your mouth.

If you’re self-conscious about your teeth, or want to improve your smile, please visit your cosmetic dentist in Duarte, Ca today.