Your smile is one of the first things other people notice when they meet you, and it’s only natural to want to make a positive impression. However, if your teeth are riddled with flaws, you might feel self-conscious or like you don’t measure up.
Fortunately, your dentist can provide one or more cosmetic dental procedures to help, but you might avoid scheduling an appointment if you’re unsure what’s involved in these treatments. Continue reading to learn more about the different types of services included and who they can potentially benefit!
What is Cosmetic Dentistry?
Cosmetic dentistry refers to the treatments your provider offers intended to enhance your appearance rather than improve your oral health. However, it’s not a dental specialty that’s officially recognized by the American Dental Association, so potentially any dentist can claim to be an expert.
But not all oral healthcare providers have the same level of experience or skill providing these services. You might ask your dentist or prosthodontist about their experience with different procedures, or whether they participate with any professional organizations, such as the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry, to help determine whether they can help you achieve your smile goals.
What Services are Included In Cosmetic Dentistry?
Many providers offer multiple procedures that can boost your confidence by mending or masking imperfections, such as mildly misaligned or gapped teeth, chipped or cracked enamel, or stubborn stains you can’t seem to brush away.
Different treatments can be used to address your concerns, including (but not limited to):
- Porcelain veneers. These thin, ceramic shells are cemented over the fronts of your teeth for an instant upgrade that can hide one or several flaws.
- Cosmetic bonding. Color-matched composite resin can be applied to your teeth to rebuild or reshape them.
- Teeth whitening. Your provider may offer professional-grade solutions for more consistent, reliable results than over-the-counter options.
- Invisalign. These clear aligners can shift your teeth to their ideal places but are completely transparent, making them a more discreet alternative to standard braces.
How Do I Know if I Need Cosmetic Dentistry?
Anyone unhappy with the condition of their grin may benefit from undergoing one or more elective treatments, but that doesn’t necessarily mean that everyone is a good candidate.
Before proceeding, you must consult your prosthodontist to ensure you’re a good candidate. They’ll examine your mouth and will treat any pre-existing problems, such as cavities or gum disease, that might interfere with the results. Then, they can devise a customized treatment plan to help you enhance your appearance.
If you have additional questions about cosmetic dentistry, the best way to learn more is to schedule a consultation with your provider!
Meet the Author
Dr. Vrajesh Shah is passionate about providing top-quality dental and prosthodontic services to improve his patient’s daily quality of life. He earned his Doctor of Dental Surgery from the New York University College of Dentistry, where he remained for his specialty Prosthodontic training. Today, he has 20 years of experience providing a comprehensive menu of services, including cosmetics, under one roof. If you’d like to improve your appearance, you can request an appointment on the website or call (732) 943-1709.