I have always envied those around me who seem to always have perfect smiles without even trying, because I feel like I was born with "bad teeth." While my teeth are in great shape now, it is only because I take great care to visit the dentist every six months for a check-up and cleaning and maintain good oral hygiene habits at home. While I used to get a lot of cavities, even though I thought I was doing "everything right" to keep them away, I am proud to say that I have been cavity-free for a couple of years now! I put a lot of research into what daily habits can wreak havoc on my teeth, and I thought it would be a shame not to share what has helped me with others who need the advice. I plan to post many oral health tips on my new blog!
Your smile can make a strong impression; for this reason, cosmetic dentistry has become increasingly popular. Cosmetic dentistry promises to give you the brightest, most perfect smile it can, which can make you exude confidence and give you a brighter outlook on life. There are many forms of cosmetic dentistry as well, both on a surgical and nonsurgical level. Below are just a few of the procedures you can have done to set yourself on the track for a perfect smile.
Teeth Whitening
One of the most common forms of cosmetic procedures you can have is a teeth whitening. Teeth whitening helps reverse the process in which teeth naturally become discolored over time. This procedure has a particularly notable effect if you are a smoker or consume large amounts of staining beverages such as coffees or teas. This effect is reached by chemically treating your teeth with a safe substance that bleaches them clean.
Unlike most procedures, this one can be done at home or in your dentist office. The difference being that treatment at home can take two to four weeks while treatment at your dentist office can be completed in a few one to two hour visits. However, it should be noted that teeth whitening is not meant to be a replacement for proper oral hygiene. Instead, it helps brighten your smile, leaving you feeling refreshed and confident.
Periodontal Plastic Surgery
This procedure is particularly useful if you have weakening gum lines. A weakening of the gum lines can lead to all sorts of problems ranging from simple tooth loss all the way to periodontal disease which can affect the whole mouth as well as lead to heart disease. While periodontal plastic surgery isn't meant to cure periodontal disease, it can replace the damaged tissue and provide better support to the teeth by reconstructing the failing gum line around them. This helps boost the life expectancy of your existing teeth as well as offering a slight visual change in your gums that will make them appear healthier.
Bonding
Bonding is particularly useful if your teeth have excess gaps in them or are otherwise damaged. Perhaps the quickest of all the procedures mentioned, bonding can be performed in just one visit while the doctor, like Young Chung DDS, uses tooth-colored materials to fill any gaps or cavities present in the mouth. This gives your mouth a more unified look, as well as protecting any nerves exposed by damage. Bonding is more of a temporary fix, however, while it can last several years the restoration agents can become stained or broken down over time.
Of course these are but a few of the procedures you can have done on your mouth by your dentist to increase appearances. As always, you should consult with your dentist to determine which procedures are best for you so you can be on your way to a brighter, happier smile.
Share20 November 2014
