The beauty industry is a million dollar industry because we are all constantly trying to keep up with the Joneses when it comes to our looks. It gets expensive though and when you are living paycheck to paycheck it can seem like a luxury that you can’t just afford.

When it comes to cosmetic dentistry though it is not just for those with thick bank accounts. Cosmetic dentistry is not just about beautifying smile, it can actually improve your oral health and fix serious dental issues.

What Exactly Is Cosmetic Dentistry?

Cosmetic Dentistry is dental work that focuses on improving the appearance of your teeth, gums and bite. Typically it is treatment that alters the size, shape, color as well as position and alignment of your teeth and gums. Sometimes it requires adding or removing dental material or adding gum grafts. It includes bonding, porcelain veneers, crowns, gum grafts, teeth whitening, dental bridges and dental implants.

How Does It Improve My Smile?

Not only does cosmetic dentistry improve the look of your smile, it also improves the function of your teeth and jaw as well and prevents more damage from happening. Bonding, veneers, and crowns are a great way to fix cracked or broken teeth, stabilizing them to prevent further damage from happening.

Your ability to chew and even to speak can often be affected by crooked teeth or misaligned jaws. Not only can it be embarrassing but it can also be uncomfortable, even painful. By correcting the source of the problem with cosmetic dentistry you can nip all these problems in the bud.

Another thing to consider is that when your teeth are crooked or broken or misshapen in any way, it is harder to clean your teeth properly.
Poor oral health also affects your overall health. Gum disease has been linked to heart disease and other health conditions.

Can It Really Transform My Life?

When testimonials talk about the life-changing aspect of cosmetic dentistry, you are probably very skeptical, but it can be a transformative experience. You will love the boost in self-confidence you get when your smile is repaired and enhanced to its fullest natural beauty. You will no longer be ashamed to hide your smiles, and you will feel more sure of yourself, friendly and approachable to others. And at work, you will find your boss and colleagues respond to your new smile and confidence and will more be likely to promote you and give you the better assignments.

Study after study has also shown that people who smile a lot tend to be happier because they are confident in their own sense of self. Not to mention the fact that smiling and laughter is a great way to reduce your stress.

What are the most Common Cosmetic Dentistry Procedures?

Teeth Whitening: Teeth tend to discolor with age even if you are always diligent with brushing, flossing and mouthwash and even if you stay away from food and drinks that can increase discoloration like red wine. Luckily there are quick and affordable teeth whitening processes available.

For the best results you should be treated by a cosmetic dentist who will use only the best and safest ingredients and procedures. If you try to whiten your teeth on your own, you may damage not only your teeth but also your health as well. The orthodontist will customize the treatment for your mouth so that you will feel less discomfort and achieve quicker results.

Veneers: Veneers are basically a thin layer of porcelain, which when put over teeth help protect and strengthen them. Cracks and chips in teeth left unprotected could lead to bigger cracks and maybe even tooth loss. Veneers can also change the color, shape, size and length of your teeth. The veneers look just like your natural teeth and they will be bonded securely to your tooth. Keep in mind though that a small part of your natural tooth will have to be removed.

Implants: When you have missing teeth, implants can help not only the appearance but also the health of your mouth. Implants are more permanent than dentures and bridges and the best part is that none of the surrounding teeth have to be modified in the process. A dental implant is basically a post made of titanium that substitutes as a tooth root. The dentist will surgically position the implant into the jawbone below the gum line. Once it is secure, he or she can then either mount replacement teeth or a bridge to the implants.

Dentures: Dentures are another option for missing teeth. If you have more than one or two missing teeth, dentures instead of implants are the more economical way to go. Dentures are basically fake teeth that you can remove to clean. Both partial and full dentures are available depending on how many teeth you have missing.

Tooth loss can happen from gum disease, tooth decay or injury. If you are missing several or all of your teeth, wearing dentures is essential not only for you appearance but your health as well. Without your teeth, it is very difficult to eat or speak and you may become embarrassed to be around other people. Also, your facial muscles tend to droop when you no longer have teeth.

Overall, think of cosmetic dentistry as not only investing in your appearance but your health as well. When you are ready to choose a cosmetic dentist, make sure that her or she is up to date on all the latest technology in cosmetic dentistry and has years of experience performing these procedures. Cosmetic dentistry is part science and part art, so you will want to make sure that who over you choose is a skilled artisan.

It is a good idea to schedule a consultation with a few candidates first so you can ask about what the best options are for your particular situation and see who has the best qualifications. Always ask to see before and after photos and references.

Want to learn more about cosmetic dentistry? Contact PA Dental Wellness today.