The days when a dazzling smile was reserved for the rich and famous are over. Cosmetic dentistry has become widely available to the public with greater accessibility and declining costs. All the advancements in cosmetic care offer more options for patients who wish to correct a multitude of dental insecurities, such as yellowing, chipped, decaying, or misaligned teeth.
With all these options, it can be difficult to discern which procedure best suits your needs and circumstances. Patients also need to consider the varying levels of commitment associated with each procedure. Let’s investigate the basics of the top five most popular cosmetic procedures.
1) Teeth Whitening
At the forefront of cosmetic enhancements, teeth whitening emerges as the most accessible transformation, erasing the effects of coffee and tea stains. Years of normal wear naturally cause the yellowing of teeth, and sometimes at home treatments just don’t cut it. Professional teeth whitening goes beyond surface level stains by assessing the needs of the patient and their teeth. Depending on the dental provider, the patient will be given the option to complete their treatment through periodic dental visits or with at home trays provided by the dentist.
There are pros and cons to each option. For one, the take-home trays take longer because the patient needs to wear them for an hour a day for up to 2 weeks. However, the trays have the primary advantage of costing less, but the in-office option typically finishes within 1-2 hour-long visits. Regardless of your finances or busy schedule, a dazzling, professionally whitened smile is within reach.
2) Invisalign
Invisalign is a top option for those looking for a straighter smile without the hassle and pain of traditional braces. The aligners consist of clear, flexible plastic, ensuring that the patient’s orthodontic work remains discreet. Patients can remove the trays for eating, drinking, and brushing their teeth, allowing them to enjoy their favorite foods without restrictions.
The treatment begins with the patient scheduling a consultation, where the dental provider will determine if they qualify for Invisalign. If approved, the dental provider will create a treatment plan that includes how often a patient needs to come in for appointments, the duration of the treatment, and how frequently the patient uses a new tray. Teeth become straighter with every tray!
3) Dental Implants
When a whole tooth needs replacement, a dental implant presents the ideal solution. A rotten, chipped, or missing tooth can cause a serious blow to a person’s smile and sense of confidence. Luckily, a complete tooth replacement consists of a screw, abutment, and crown in the case of dental implants. The crown represents the visible part of the dental implant, which looks and feels natural to the patient. Patients prefer dental implants over other false tooth alternatives, such as dentures, because they feel natural and do not restrict the types of food you can eat.
Their longevity and ease of maintenance make dental implants particularly popular. You can ensure a lifetime of durability for your dental implant by performing regular maintenance tasks like brushing, flossing, and attending routine dental appointments.
4) Dental Veneers
Patients seeking a minor fix to more cosmetic dental issues find veneers a great option. The ideal mask for an imperfect tooth, dental veneers are coverings placed on top of the impacted tooth for a natural look. The veneer is made of tooth-colored materials such as porcelain or resin, making it undetectable to others. Veneers are designed to be stain-resistant, but they should still be taken care of through normal means like brushing and flossing.
Porcelain veneers usually have a lifespan of about 10 years and are cemented to the affected tooth during placement, while composite veneers last for approximately 3 years. Removable veneers, a new alternative, has gained popularity since they are easy to slide on and off.
5) Dental Bonding
Dental bonding is the secret to a radiant smile with minimal obligation. Dentists use dental bonding to restore your chipped or damaged teeth to their original state. They apply a composite resin material to the tooth and sculpt it into a shape that matches the rest of your smile for a natural look. This minimally invasive cosmetic procedure offers long-lasting results. With proper care, you will not need to replace the bonding for 5-10 years.
Many people seeking cosmetic improvements prefer dental bonding because it offers low commitment and affordability. This procedure easily reverses and stands as one of the least expensive cosmetic procedures on this list. Additionally, you can typically complete dental bonding in one visit, avoiding the need to schedule multiple appointments to achieve the smile of your dreams.
Ready for Your New Smile?
Stop letting dental imperfections drag down your self-confidence. You will never have to hide your smile again with the wide array of procedures available within cosmetic dentistry. The expert dental team at Chestnut Ridge Dental is ready to assist you in your path towards a happier and healthier smile.
Need more help determining which procedure to go with? Call our office at (201) 391-4466 today to begin your personalized care with our dentists. We will assist with all your questions and concerns with the upmost care and experience.
