Cosmetic dentistry has been gaining popularity over the years, with more and more people seeking ways to enhance the appearance of their teeth. In recent years, there have been several notable trends in cosmetic dentistry that have become increasingly popular.
One of the most prominent trends is the use of clear aligners to straighten teeth as opposed to the chunky braces we all know.
Teeth whitening is another growing trend as it becomes more attainable to perfect your smile. Advancements in dental technology have made it possible for cosmetic dentists to offer a wide range of treatments to their patients.
If you are looking to enhance your smile, there has never been a better time to explore the possibilities. Here are the top cosmetic dentistry trends to achieve your perfect smile.
Dental Veneers
When you have a big, beautiful smile, people remember that about you. A great smile may be genetic or it may be veneers, it’s hard to tell these days.
It’s hard to say because good-quality dental veneers look completely natural. There are different types available, made of different materials, but porcelain is the most popular.
Veneers can improve the appearance of chipped, cracked, or misshapen teeth and give you a reason to smile again.
Your dentist will first evaluate the condition of your teeth. They may need to be slightly reshaped first for a better fit, but veneers aren’t suitable for teeth in very poor condition.
As they cover your existing teeth, veneers can transform your entire appearance. They aren’t going to treat dental issues, but they’ll give you the smile you always dreamed of. An impression will be taken of your teeth to get the shape and fit right, and the shade will closely match your teeth.
Teeth Whitening
Coffee, tea, tobacco use, and even everyday foods can stain and discolor your teeth over time. While you can make lifestyle changes to whiten your teeth, these at-home methods don’t always achieve the best results.
If your teeth are in good condition but are dull and discolored, teeth whitening procedures get them to look their best again.
There are a variety of teeth whitening options available. In-office treatments with a professional usually offer the best results, but DIY kits and natural remedies allow you to do this at home.
Professional teeth whitening services may use a special bleach solution or even a laser that activates a whitening solution applied to the teeth. This can produce instant results.
Invisalign and Clear Aligners
Crooked or misaligned teeth are a slightly more complicated fix, but the results are worth it. Forget those unsightly traditional metal braces that caused such physical and mental discomfort. Clear aligners and Invisalign are modern alternatives to those clunky metal braces.
They work similarly to traditional braces in that they exert force against the teeth to push them back into position. However, this gentle force can still feel uncomfortable to sensitive patients.
That aside, with greater comfort and aesthetics than conventional braces, they’re the ultimate solution to fixing a crooked smile. Invisalign and clear aligners are not permanently attached to the teeth like the wires of traditional braces. This makes them more convenient to use.
Gum Contouring
Sometimes your teeth are not the main problem, but rather an uneven or receding gum line. This, too, can be rectified with the cosmetic dentistry technique known as gum contouring. Also known as gingival sculpting or gingivoplasty, this corrects gum lines that are too high, too low, or crooked.
This procedure involves removing excess gum tissue or repositioning gum tissue, using a scalpel or special laser. You won’t have to take time off work to recover, but you may feel quite a bit of tenderness. It can take a few days to a couple of weeks to fully heal but will improve a gummy smile.
Dental Implants
Have you got missing teeth, or teeth that are damaged beyond repair? Don’t despair. Dental implants are the solution. Dental implants mimic your natural teeth. They fill in the gaps caused by missing teeth, as well as replace damaged teeth.
Unlike removable dentures, these stay in place and blend in with your teeth. And like veneers, they do wonders for your self-confidence.
Instead of the root that natural teeth have, these implants have titanium screws that are embedded in the jawbone. This outpatient surgery offers permanent, natural-looking results. You can return to work the next day, and your jawline will be healed up in about 6 – 8 weeks.
The metal implant is the anchor for a dental crown or bridge, which will be attached once you’re completely healed.
