Blog

Cosmetic dentistry refers to any procedure that can improve the appearance and/or function of your teeth and smile. This means that it encompasses a wide range of treatments, from simple teeth whitening to complex procedures such as dental implants or veneers. Here are a few of cosmetic dentistry procedures that improve the appearance of the smile:

• Teeth Whitening

A professional teeth whitening procedure can greatly improve the brightness and whiteness of your teeth. Whether you opt for an in-office teeth whitening treatment or a simple take-home kit, professional whitening is the safest way to brighten your smile. Professional whitening is more effective than over-the-counter whitening kits for two reasons. First, professional at-home kits are carefully engineered with a dentist's supervision to ensure that the level of whitening agent used is safe for your teeth enamel. Second, the dentist's advice and expertise can ensure that your smile remains bright for a long time after the procedure. Some patients even report results that last over a year. 

The best way to get more personalized advice about which treatment option is best for you is by scheduling an appointment with your dentist. He or she can give you a more detailed overview of the procedures and help you decide which one is right for you.

• Dental Bonding

Dental bonding is a cosmetic dentistry procedure that can improve the appearance of your smile by covering imperfections with tooth-colored resin. During this procedure, your dentist will apply the composite resin to your tooth and sculpt it to the correct shape. The bond will then be hardened with a special light.

A dentist can use dental bonding to cover minor chips or cracks in your teeth, as well as gaps between teeth. If you have tooth decay, this treatment option may not be recommended for your condition because it cannot restore the structure of your tooth. However, it can be useful for protecting the surface of a tooth from further damage until you can get more extensive treatment like dental fillings or a dental crown.

Although dental bonding is not the most durable option for repairing damaged teeth, it is affordable and convenient for many people. You may be able to have dental bonding in just one visit to your cosmetic dentist's office. This procedure is non-invasive and can be reversed if it becomes necessary. It is also stain-resistant, so you can enjoy the beauty of your new smile for years.

• Veneers

One cosmetic dentistry procedure that can help you improve the appearance of your smile is porcelain veneers. These are thin shells made of tooth-colored porcelain that are designed to cover the front surface of your teeth. They can be shaped and sized to fit your needs and can help correct a number of cosmetic flaws, including stains, chips, cracks, gaps, and other minor misalignments. Best of all, the results can last for several years with proper care. There are several types of veneers available to address different issues, so talk with your dentist about your options to see what might be best for you.

• Dental Implants

Dental implants are an excellent choice for both restorative and cosmetic dentistry purposes. They can be used to replace one or more missing teeth, as well as anchor a denture or partial denture in place. The implant itself is a tiny titanium post that is placed into the jawbone, where it naturally melds with the existing bone tissue through a process called osseointegration. A dental crown is then affixed over the implant to provide a strong replacement tooth. Best of all, dental implants provide a permanent solution to tooth loss without any additional maintenance other than routine brushing and flossing.

To learn more about the benefits of cosmetic dentistry treatments, contact Spera Dental at 5190 E. Farness Drive, Suite 102, Tucson, AZ 85712, or call (520) 323-3241.