If you are not happy with your smile, you may want to consider seeing a cosmetic dentist. According to the American Dental Association, 33% of young people are reluctant to smile due to dental problems. And 23% of adults cut back on social activities because of their self-consciousness over their smiles. Fortunately, a visit to a cosmetic dentist can help you improve the condition of your teeth and gums. Here are some reasons why.
Invisalign braces
If you’re interested in Invisalign braces but aren’t sure which provider to choose, you should consider your general dentist first. A general dentist is a trusted professional who will determine whether Invisalign is an appropriate treatment option for your needs and help you achieve the best cosmetic results. If your case is more complicated, a cosmetic dentist may recommend a different provider to address the unique challenges of your smile.
Your dentist will fit your first set of aligners. Wear them for two weeks, then visit him or her again for a second set. The first six to eight weeks of treatment require biweekly visits. After that, you may only need appointments every eight weeks. Depending on your misalignment, this process can take anywhere from eight to fifteen months. Your cosmetic dentist will continue to check your progress throughout the treatment.
Tooth-colored fillings
Tooth-colored fillings are a common type of dental restoration that replaces damaged silver fillings with natural-looking, biocompatible composite resin. Since these materials are not made of metal, they are biocompatible and can be shade-matched to the surrounding dentition. However, they should only be used in cases where the tooth is severely damaged or decayed. Your dentist will determine whether tooth-colored fillings are a suitable solution for you.
In addition to removing decay, tooth-colored fillings are often used to correct minor imperfections in your teeth. These restorations require a local anesthetic. Choosing a tooth-colored filling can help preserve more natural tooth structure and reduce your exposure to mercury. Additionally, tooth-colored fillings blend in naturally with other teeth and can last for many years. While some patients may feel that tooth-colored fillings do not improve their smile, they should visit a cosmetic dentist if they have any of these problems.
X-rays
When visiting a cosmetic dentist, expect to get X-rays taken of your teeth. Although there are some precautions you should take, the process itself is usually painless. The X-rays are not painful but you should be aware of where they will be placed. Some people have sensitive gag reflexes and the technician should be able to work with you to control this. Children are particularly susceptible to this reflex, so X-rays are generally avoided for children. While children do not usually get dental X-rays, dentists may take bitewings every year to check for dental caries in between the teeth and to see how much bone there is under the teeth.
If you are concerned about the radiation from X-rays, it is a good idea to discuss the frequency of these procedures with your dentist. However, you should know that the dentist is required to take X-rays when necessary, depending on your oral health and any existing problems. If you’re worried about radiation, talk to them about how often you need them, and what kind of X-rays they take.
Consultation
If you are concerned about your smile, you may want to schedule an initial consultation with a cosmetic dentist. This appointment is meant to give you an idea of what to expect and what type of treatments are available. Your dentist can help you set realistic expectations and can answer any questions you may have. You can talk to your dentist about your desired tooth shapes, colors, and sizes. Your initial consultation can help you determine which type of cosmetic dentistry procedure is right for you.
If you are unhappy with your smile or are worried that your smile may be affecting your self-esteem, you may want to consider cosmetic dental treatment. Cosmetic dental procedures can improve your smile, giving you a boost in confidence. When you schedule a consultation, be sure to bring along some questions with you. Studio B Smiles will assess your teeth and gum health and looks for any signs of dental disease. You should be aware of what to expect during your appointment, so you can have the best experience possible.
