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!
Everyone wants a white and bright smile, but normal eating and drinking can cause stains, leading to dingy or yellow teeth. If you want a whiter smile, there are many options. Check out these three popular options for whiter teeth to see which is right for you.
1. Professional Teeth Whitening
If your only dental concern is dingy or stained teeth, professional teeth whitening is your best choice. This type of whitening can be done in office or at home with trays. The in-office procedure is much faster. In fact, you may only need a single treatment. The trays are effective but take time. With professional teeth whitening, you get the strongest solution possible. Teeth whitening is great at organic stains, such as tobacco stains, wine stains, etc. However, it is not good for inorganic stains, such as discoloration from trauma.
2. Dental Bonding or Veneers
Dental bonding and veneers are another option for people who have more than just some organic staining. If you have inorganic stains, they can be hidden with dental bonding or veneers, making your tooth look white again. Dental bonding is cheaper, and it can be done in just one visit because the dentist applies the composite resin to your teeth and shapes them. Less tooth tissue is also removed to hold the composite resin. Veneers may cost more, but they look more natural. However, the process takes time as the veneer must be crafted in a lab. Dental bonding and veneers can also fix minor tooth problems, such as crookedness, gapping, uneven teeth, etc.
3. Porcelain Dental Crowns
Porcelain dental crowns are much like veneers, except they cover the entire tooth. They use the same porcelain material veneers do, so you get that translucent natural look. Dental crowns are expensive, however, especially porcelain crowns. Like dental bonding and veneers, dental crowns can hide inorganic stains and fix some tooth problems, but unlike veneers and dental bonding, dental crowns strengthen teeth, making them great if you have big cracks or fillings in your teeth too. Dental crowns also cover the entire tooth, protecting them from decay except along the gum line.
You can get a beautiful and perfect smile. Whether you just want your teeth a few shades whiter, or you have some other concerns too, there is a treatment that can improve the look of your smile. For more information about cosmetic dentistry, contact a dental office like Picone Dental - Vincent J Picone DDS in your area today and schedule a consolation.
Share18 March 2018
