Do you have aesthetic imperfections in your grin that make you too self-conscious to smile confidently? Dental flaws can detract from your daily quality of life because you might develop anxiety or avoid social interactions if you’re overly worried about being judged for your looks.
Thankfully, your dentist can provide one or more cosmetic services to enhance your appearance and boost your confidence. However, many patients are unsure how to get started upgrading their grin. Continue reading to learn about three common concerns and how your provider addresses them.
Issue #1: Stubborn Stains
One of the first things others notice about you is the quality of your smile, and if yours looks more muddy or yellow than pearly white, you might not make a good impression. Although many commercially available products claim to lighten your teeth, they often contain diluted bleaching agents that are less effective and can cause sensitivity.
Meanwhile, your provider uses ultra-concentrated gels designed to mitigate potential discomfort. They also utilize custom-fitted trays for more accurate treatment outcomes. Whether you opt for an in-office procedure for instant results or take-home kits containing professional-grade supplies, you’re more likely to achieve the desired shade working with your dentist.
Issue #2: Damaged Enamel
Not only can chipped, cracked, or misshapen enamel detract from your appearance, but it can also negatively affect your oral health. Once the structure of your tooth is compromised, bacteria are more likely to penetrate your enamel to infect the tender tissues inside. Additionally, your damaged teeth are prone to further injury until the issue is addressed.
Your dentist can place porcelain veneers to hide one or more flaws in your smile. These thin, ceramic shells are customized to be just the right shade, shape, and size, then are bonded to the fronts of your teeth to mask imperfections. Plus, they’re coated with a glaze that’s durable enough to resist staining and chipping, giving your grin an added layer of protection.
Issue #3: Misalignments
Slightly gapped or overcrowded teeth can be both visually frustrating and detrimental to your dental health. If they overlap, it’s harder to reach all surfaces to brush and floss them, increasing your vulnerability to cavities and gum disease.
If you’re seeking a discreet solution to address dental drifting, you might benefit from Invisalign. Unlike traditional orthodontics, this clear alternative utilizes transparent plastic trays that fit snugly over your teeth to shift them. The smooth material allows your natural teeth to shine through, so you don’t have to worry about unsightly metal brackets and wires.
If you’re still unsure of the best cosmetic way to achieve your smile goals, having an honest conversation with your dentist about your concerns can help them tailor treatment plans to meet your unique needs!
Meet the Author
Dr. Christina Herrera is passionate about improving people’s lives by enhancing their oral health. She earned her Doctor of Dental Surgery from the University of Oklahoma and commits over 100 hours annually to continuing education at prestigious institutions, like Spear Education. Today, she has 25 years of experience providing a comprehensive menu of services, including cosmetics, at one convenient location. Whether you want a brighter grin or to address minor chips and cracks, she combines a caring approach with advanced technology to provide comfortable, lasting results. You can request a consultation on the website or by calling (408) 378-8773.