The Benefits of Cosmetic Dentistry
With today’s growing selfie culture and countless pictures being snapped per day, your smile is one of your most important visible features. However, many people are self-conscious about their smile, due to the condition of their teeth. Some may worry about how yellow or crooked their teeth are, or that they’re missing teeth. Not to worry, though! For these kinds of issues, a cosmetic dentist can fix any and all of your worries. Plenty of people have been going to a cosmetic dentist to improve the condition of their teeth and their smile. In the last five years, the number of people who have received teeth whitening procedures has gone up 300%! Additionally, about 15 million people have gotten crown and bridge replacements for their missing teeth.
What Does a Cosmetic Dentist Do?
A cosmetic dentist is focused on the appearance of your teeth and the way your smile looks. He or she may whiten your teeth, reshape your teeth, reduce gaps or spaces between teeth, restore worn down teeth, or reshape and contour your teeth. Although the results are often for a cosmetic effect, some of the fixes they apply will also be better and healthier for your teeth. Getting braces, for example, falls into the realm of cosmetic dentistry. Another element that falls under cosmetic dentist work is getting new dentures, although it serves a practical function as well. With about 30% of seniors over 75 years old lacking any of their natural teeth, dentures have become a huge part of the industry. Cosmetic dentists can ensure you receive high quality natural looking dentures. Procedures they may run include bleaching to white teeth, veneer work, which alters the color or shape of the tooth, or crowns, which are like a small cap fit over the tooth to bring it back to its natural appearance and shape. Crowns have the best longevity, but they’re more expensive and take longer to do.
How Do I Find a Cosmetic Dentist?
Your local dentist or family dentist may be able to refer you to a cosmetic dentist. The Yellow Pages in your phonebook or even a quick Google search can yield many results. One of the best ways to find a cosmetic dentist is personal references from family or friends, who may have been to a cosmetic dentist themselves. Before choosing your dentist, you want to make sure their work fits with what you want. Many times, cosmetic dentists will have a website where you can see photos of their work; these are often useful to gauge the success and quality of their procedures. You also want to make sure your cosmetic dentist belongs to the AACD (American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry) and is staying current on the latest techniques and procedures being offered.
Having a whiter and even smile can do wonders for your self-confidence and self-esteem. Remember to keep up with your dental health once you’ve had your procedure to keep those pearly whites looking bright. Brush and floss regularly and check in with your dentist once every six months. These steps can keep your new smile looking perfect for years to come.
