6 Cosmetic Dental Procedures to Give You Your Smile Makeover

Mother Teresa once said, “Peace begins with a smile.” A famous American proverb says,  “A smile is worth a thousand words.” There is no doubt that a smile plays a vital role in our everyday lives. Smiles convey so much emotion and are what make us approachable to others.

Many people desire to improve the shape or color of their teeth. Others look at pictures of people who they feel have beautiful smiles and wonder what it is that gives them a bright, confident appearance.

With the smile being such an essential visible component of our personalities, it is only natural for dental professionals to want to help their patients obtain the smile of their dreams. If you are thinking of getting a smile makeover, you must take some time to review the various dental procedures available to you. Each procedure serves a slightly different purpose, so knowing your options before meeting with your dentist will help you have a more productive conversation to adequately express your goals and what you desire in your new smile. Check out this list of standard procedures in Plano, TX, that can help you improve your smile.

1. Dental Bonding

Dental bonding, otherwise known as tooth bonding, uses soft composite resin to correct the teeth’s cracks or chips. The resin is flexible so that the cosmetic dentist can mold it into the necessary shape and polish it to the shade that will best match your natural teeth. A special light is then used to set the bond and make it hard. Dental bonding is also a great way to close a dental gap without requiring braces.

2. Veneers

Veneers are commonly used to give your teeth a more classically shaped look. Many celebrities have elected to have veneers, as they believe they will help with their self-confidence and marketability. Oftentimes, people confuse dental bonding with veneers. But dental bonding and veneers are indeed different procedures. Both procedures are frequently used for teeth that have been broken or chipped or for those with uneven spacing or discoloration. Your cosmetic dentist will be able to determine which procedure is best for you based on your smile makeover goals.

3. Tooth Whitening

Our teeth tend to discolor with age. Consumption of coffee and sodas, smoking, chewing tobacco, and improper or irregular brushing can all cause the teeth to dull or yellow over time. Though the best way to help your teeth whiten naturally is to change your daily habits to consume healthier foods and cut out all types of tobacco, it is sometimes necessary to seek out professional tooth whitening services.

Many people elect a modern approach to teeth whitening called Zoom! This procedure can be completed in one day and can leave you with whiter teeth in just an hour or two. Not only will your teeth be whiter, but they will be several shades lighter. This makes teeth whitening a popular solution for those looking for a smile makeover.

4. Tooth Straightening

There are many reasons why our teeth aren’t as naturally straight as we desire. Fortunately, there are options available to help straighten them easily. A popular choice today is the clear teeth aligner solution, such as Invisalign. With these custom-made removable aligners, no one needs to know you are wearing an orthodontic device other than you. The aligner solution has you rotate through different retainer trays until your teeth shift into their new, desired position.

The more traditional approach to tooth straightening involves braces that consist of fixed brackets, wires, and elastic bands. The items work in combination to shift teeth into their new position. With today’s modern braces, patients can even choose their color preference.

5. Dental Implants

Dental implants are artificial roots that are placed into your jaw to hold a replacement tooth or bridge. Those who have lost teeth due to periodontal disease or an injury often receive dental implants. The most common type of implant is the in-bone implant (endosteal), which places screws, cylinders, or blades into the jawbone via a surgical procedure. Endosteal implants are often used for patients with bridges or removable dentures.

Another type of implant is the on-the-bone implant (subperiosteal). These implants are placed above the jaw, and the metal framework’s posts protrude through the gums. Patients who are unable to wear conventional dentures are candidates for this particular dental implant procedure.

Historically, the process of receiving implants has been a costly and time-consuming one. But now, the All-on-4® method provides a complete set of permanent teeth in one day. These implants provide the necessary structure for your new set of teeth. The implants are custom-crafted to the shade and shape of teeth that will look most natural in your mouth. Patients who undergo the All-on-4® method can experience faster healing and less discomfort, making it a perfect solution for your smile makeover.

6. Dental Crowns

Dental crowns are commonly used in smile makeovers because they can strengthen a tooth that has a large filling or one that doesn’t have enough room to maintain its hold. Dental crowns are also used to attach bridges and can help protect a weak tooth from breaking. Dental crowns are a great way to cover teeth that are discolored or misshapen.

If you have visible cracks or cavities in your teeth, crowns could help restore your smile, making your teeth look brand new. There are various types of crowns, however. A popular choice of dental crowns is the CEREC Same Day Crowns. This is a relatively

new type of dental treatment that uses computer-aided design and manufacturing (CAD/CAM) to make same day crowns. The entire procedure for a CEREC crown only takes a couple of hours, making it great for on-the-go people who don’t have hours and hours to spend in the dentist’s office over multiple visits.

Are you ready for your smile makeover?

If you are ready for your Plano, TX, smile makeover, contact us directly at (972) 491-2677. Or, schedule an appointment on the Millennium Dental website. You’ll find out quickly why our patients appreciate our patient-centric approach to cosmetic dentistry. We can’t wait to help you with the smile makeover of your dreams.