As dentists, we’re always pleased to help our patients achieve better oral health, but there’s something especially rewarding about providing a treatment that completely transforms a person’s self-esteem. If you’ve spent your whole life hiding your teeth when you smile or avoiding looking in the mirror, cosmetic dentistry can help you feel confident enough to share your smile with the world. Here are some of the ways cosmetic dentistry can boost your self-confidence.
It Can Make You Look Younger
You’ve certainly noticed changes to your skin and hair as you get older, but did you know your teeth also change with age? Years of wear and acidic foods cause the enamel to thin, turning your pearly whites into a dull yellow. Patients who like to start every day with a cup of coffee or partake in a glass of red wine after dinner will notice their teeth become stained more easily. Professional teeth whitening treatments are a simple, effective way to achieve a radiant, youthful smile.
For the most dramatic results in the shortest amount of time, choose in-office teeth whitening from a dentist. This treatment involves applying a bleaching agent to your teeth, then activating it with a specialized light. In under an hour, your teeth will be up to seven shades lighter. For milder stains, an at-home bleaching kit may be perfect for your needs. These kits are stronger than the whitening treatments you can buy online or in drug stores, yielding impressive results in as little as two weeks.
It Can Reshape Your Teeth
While stains, yellowing, and discoloration are the most common cosmetic concern patients have, teeth shape and size can also be a source of insecurity. We hear from some patients who think their teeth are too big, while others complain to us that their teeth are too small; some patients think their teeth are too uneven, while others believe they’re too flat. Patients might also be happy with the size of their teeth, but feel self-conscious about gaps or chips.
Cosmetic dentistry can improve both the shape and size of your teeth. The treatment we use depends on your concerns and your goals, but veneers are an excellent solution for most issues. In addition to veneers, teeth can be shaved down or augmented and filled in with bonding material.
It Can Give You a Total Smile Makeover
For some patients, the answer to, “What would you like to improve about your smile?” is “Everything.” If you have discoloration, gaps, misalignments, and shape and size issues, it’s possible to address all of them.
A smile makeover uses a combination of cosmetic and restorative dental treatments for a complete transformation, but veneers alone can be an excellent option for patients who want to correct a number of imperfections at the same time. Veneers essentially allow us to start with a clean slate and create the smile you’ve always wanted.
Learn More About Cosmetic Dentistry
If you’d like to discuss cosmetic dentistry with one of our doctors, contact us today at 310-530-9893 to schedule an appointment for a consultation.