3 Common Cosmetic Dentistry Procedures That Enhance Our Smile

A beautiful smile is an asset. A smile is the first thing that people notice in you. A beautiful smile not only enhances our appearance but also makes us more confident. A good smile is a combination of healthy teeth and gums, white teeth, and aligned teeth. Here are a few common cosmetic dentistry procedures that enhance one's smile. 

• Porcelain Veneers Treatments

Dental veneers are thin shells of ceramic or resin material that cover the front surface and sides of teeth. They are custom-made in a laboratory to the exact color, shape, and size of the patient's natural teeth. This procedure requires minimal tooth reduction preparation, and patients can leave the office that same day with beautiful smiles. The treatment can greatly improve the appearance of the smile by concealing age-related stains, chips, cracks, damage, gaps between teeth, and minor misalignment issues.

The process of getting veneers typically requires two appointments with the dentist to complete. At the first appointment, the teeth will be prepared for the veneers by removing a small amount of enamel from the surface of each tooth. The dentist will then take an impression of the teeth and send it to the laboratory where the veneers are made. Patients will leave the office with temporary veneers to wear while their new smile is being crafted in the lab. Once the veneers have been fabricated, the patient returns to the office to have them permanently bonded to the surface of the teeth. Some patients choose to get teeth whitening after their veneers have been placed if they are unhappy with their shade.

• Teeth Whitening

Are you unhappy with the color of your teeth? Professional teeth whitening treatment can drastically brighten your smile in just one visit! Teeth whitening is one of the most popular cosmetic dentistry procedures available. It is designed to whiten teeth that have been stained by food, wine, coffee, soda, and other substances. With in-office whitening, we protect your gums before applying a strong bleaching gel to your teeth. A special light is used to penetrate and break down your tooth stains, revealing your bright smile underneath. In just one appointment, you can have teeth that are up to ten shades whiter than they were before! This treatment is recommended for patients with moderate to severe tooth discolorations.

However, some patients may experience sensitivity with professional teeth whitening treatments. In this case, our dentist may recommend an at-home whitening kit instead. These kits contain a similar gel that is applied to the surface of the teeth and activated using the included tray. Each day, you fill the tray with the solution and wear it for 30 minutes to one hour per application. After about two weeks of daily applications, you can enjoy a whiter and brighter smile! 

• Invisalign Clear Braces

For those who are looking to straighten their teeth discreetly, Invisalign clear braces are the solution! These custom-fit aligners are made from durable, BPA-free plastic that is nearly invisible when worn. They're also removable for short periods of time to allow for eating and cleaning your teeth. Aligners are designed to move teeth into their proper positions over time without causing damage.

Invisalign is an orthodontic system that can treat mild to severe misalignment issues. This treatment involves wearing a series of custom-made aligner trays that gradually shift teeth into the desired position. Each set of trays is worn for a few weeks before switching to the next set in the series. Once you've completed the last tray of your series, you should have a straight and healthy smile that will last for years to come!

Invisalign® clear braces offer many advantages that other orthodontic treatments do not. First, these aligners are very thin and clear, so they are much less noticeable than traditional braces. While other orthodontics require lengthy visits to adjust or repair your appliances, Invisalign clear braces are easily adjusted by your dentist every four to six weeks during your routine checkups. Finally, you can remove your aligners for special occasions or when you eat, so you don't have to feel self-conscious while wearing them. Overall, invisalign® clear braces are a much faster and better option than older methods of straightening teeth. With revolutionary technology and a discreet appearance, you can achieve the healthy smile you always wanted without the hassle of metal braces. 

To learn more, request an appointment here: https://familydentistrypeoria.com or call Peoria Family Dentistry at 623-552-4665 for an appointment in our Peoria office.