What Is Cosmetic Dentistry?
Cosmetic dentistry, also known as aesthetic dentistry, aims to improve the appearance of your teeth by straightening, reshaping, or replacing missing ones.
Each person is unique; some may only require minor cosmetic procedures, while some might need multiple procedures. Regardless of your case’s complexity, it’s essential to see a dentist so they can create a treatment plan specific to your condition.
Cosmetic Dentistry Trends You Should Know About
Here are some of the latest dental cosmetics for those planning to improve their smile:
1. Teeth Whitening
According to data calculated by Statista based on the Simmons National Consumer Survey (NHCS) and U.S. Census data, 37 million Americans use teeth whiteners. This number shows how much people care for whiter teeth and why teeth whitening is one of the most popular cosmetic dentistry trends.
Patients now look for more natural-looking white teeth rather than making their teeth as white as possible. The whitening process remains the same; however, dentists now have their patients use fewer whitening agents or whiten their teeth less frequently for a more natural look.
Philips Zoom is a popular in-office teeth whitening system that uses a light to activate a balanced hydrogen peroxide paste. It can make your teeth whiter up to eight times, so discuss with your dentist how white you want your teeth to be before deciding on a treatment plan.
You also have other teeth whitening options available, and your dentist can help you choose the best one for you. Some options allow you to whiten your teeth at home using whitening strips or trays. However, nothing beats the results of in-office teeth whitening.
2. Dental Implants
Implants replace damaged or missing teeth and teeth roots. Dentists place screw-like metal posts into your jawbone to replace tooth roots. It takes six to twelve weeks for your soft tissues and bone to heal and implants to fuse into your jawbone.
Dentists top them off with a crown once your bone and soft tissues have healed and the implants have fused into the jawbone. Once healed, dentists place abutments into the tooth rot, which supports a crown that looks and functions like real teeth.
Dental implants are a viable alternative to dentures or dental bridges. Dentists can place them in various ways depending on your jawbone’s condition.
3. Dental Veneers
Dental veneers conceal your teeth’ imperfections, like stains, chips, cracks, or gaps — an excellent alternative to dental bonding and teeth whitening. They are thin shells made of porcelain or composite resin that dentists place over the front surfaces of your teeth to conceal your teeth’s imperfections.
Veneers can last from 10 to 30 years with proper care. However, you should care what you eat, especially if you use your front teeth to bite into your food.
4. Dental Bonding
Another of these cosmetic dentistry trends to watch out for is dental bonding, also known as teeth bonding. It improves the appearance of damaged, chipped, or cracked teeth and reduces the gap between your teeth.
In dental bonding, dentists apply a tooth-colored resin material on the tooth that needs improvement. They use a special light to harden the material and bond it to your teeth.
Dental bonding can last for three to ten years before it needs to be retouched or replaced. However, you should note that dental bonding isn’t suitable for severe cases of cracked, broken, or chipped teeth.
5. Gum Contouring
Gum contouring, or gum reshaping, is a technique that improves your gum line. Dentists reshape your gums by removing excess gum tissue or restoring those that have receded.
This procedure is ideal for those with uneven gums or gums that rest too low or too high. Consult a dentist before you decide to have this procedure; it is complicated and painful and should only be done when necessary.
6. Clear Aligners
Invisible or clear aligners are made of durable, transparent plastic that is almost invisible when worn. They help correct misaligned or crooked teeth and treat other dental conditions like open bites, overbites, and gap teeth.
Metal braces are the most common option to correct such conditions, but many people find them uncomfortable. Clear aligners are now available to correct many dental conditions. They are also more comfortable and discreet than metal braces.
7. 3D Dentistry
3D dentistry is a fascinating trend in dental cosmetics. It involves using a 3D printer to assist dentists in producing more effective results. It also allows dentists to use cone beam computed tomography to create physical and surgical models, even clear aligners. This technology allows them to see the mouth in three dimensions, making it easier for them to provide dental services.
8. Smile Makeover
Smile makeovers combine cosmetic dentistry procedures, such as teeth whitening, tooth bonding, and dental implant placements. Also known as a full-mouth restoration, this treatment aims to improve the appearance of your entire mouth.
Dentists create customized treatment plans for patients who want a smile makeover to address all their concerns. With proper care, these treatments can last for up to 15 years.
Key Takeaway
Cosmetic dentistry is one of the best ways to achieve better looks. It offers many options for various aesthetic concerns. Cosmetic dentistry trends you should watch out for include teeth whitening, smile makeovers, veneers, dental bonding, gum contouring, clear aligners, and 3D dentistry. However, discuss things with your dentist before proceeding with cosmetic dentistry procedures.
Enjoy a more beautiful smile today with Century Dental.
Cosmetic dentistry is the best choice if you want a beautiful and confident smile, and Century Dental can help you achieve it. We offer cosmetic dentistry services for people with various dental conditions. Our dentist in St. Pete Beach provides personalized treatment plans to address every patient’s concerns and needs. Contact us now! We’ll be happy to answer any questions you may have.
