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Improve Your Smile with the Help of a Cosmetic Dentist

August 9, 2022

Close-up of woman’s beautiful smile after treatment by her cosmetic dentist

Are you happy with your smile?  Do you want to have nice smile?  Is your smile affecting your look or confidence?  You can improve your smile with the help of cosmetic dentist. Whereas general dental services focus on improving the function and health of the teeth, cosmetic dentistry integrates both the function of teeth with aesthetics. Its goal is to help you look the best!

Are you interested in improving the appearance of your teeth? Read on below to learn about some popular aesthetic treatments. You’ll also discover some useful information about cost and aftercare.

Popular Cosmetic Treatments

Some popular ways to enhance your smile include:

Teeth Whitening

Woman’s smile before and after professional teeth whitening treatment

Teeth whitening uses specially formulated solutions to penetrate the tooth enamel, break up pigment molecules, and leave you with a brighter smile. It is one of the most commonly recommended cosmetic treatments due to its simplicity and efficacy.

Dental Bonding

Happy patient using mirror to admire the results of her dental bonding

Dental bonding involves the use of a composite resin material that is bonded onto the teeth and then hardened with a special light. It requires just one appointment, and it provides natural-looking results that last for years. It can be used to address a number of aesthetic issues, such as cracks, chips, and discoloration. The resin is also a reliable filling material that is now commonly used in lieu of toxic silver amalgam.

Dental Crowns

Illustration of porcelain dental crown being placed on tooth

Dental crowns are both a restorative and cosmetic treatment. They are tooth-shaped caps that completely cover the portion of a tooth that is above the gumline. When they are constructed out of porcelain or similar-looking materials, they provide an incredibly natural appearance. They are often used to reshape teeth, hide discoloration, and protect weakened dentition.

Veneers and Lumineers

Woman framing teeth with fingers, showing her veneers

Veneers and Lumineers are thin pieces of porcelain that get attached to the outward-facing surface of a tooth. They can disguise numerous flaws, including discoloration, chips, asymmetry, small gaps, and more. On average, they last for 10 – 15 years or longer.

Veneers and Lumineers are similar in many ways. However, Lumineers are a bit thinner and come with a slightly different treatment process.

Inlays and Onlays

Two dental onlays on detailed tooth model

Inlays and onlays are known as “indirect fillings.” They are used to address moderate to severe decay, as well as other forms of damage. Thanks to their expert craftsmanship and high-quality materials, they can look extremely natural.

Cosmetic Dentistry Cost Factors

Satisfied patient using mirror to admire the results of her cosmetic treatment

The cost of cosmetic dentistry varies between cases. Here are some factors that may influence the price of your treatment:

  • Facilities and equipment. If your dentist has invested in the latest dental technology, you are likely to enjoy more efficient treatment and optimum results. However, you may pay a bit more.
  • Materials and laboratory fees. Logically, the porcelain or other materials used in your procedures will have a bearing on cost. Additionally, the pricing structure of the laboratory that your dentist works with may also come into play.
  • The extent of your treatment. This is probably the biggest factor that influences cost. The most extensive and complex your treatment is, the more you will pay for your enhanced smile.
  • Aftercare. Follow-up care after the completion of your treatment may be a recurring cost for many years. It is a smart investment that can help your mouth to stay as healthy and attractive as possible.

Caring for Your Results

Young woman in front of mirror, using electric toothbrush to clean her teeth

Each cosmetic procedure requires slightly different aftercare. Here are some basic guidelines on how to maintain the results of a few popular services:

  • Veneers. You should use a soft-bristled brush to clean your veneers, and avoid the use of any highly abrasive toothpaste. Daily flossing is also important.
  • Dental implants. Dental implants are a restorative tooth replacement treatment that offers outstanding aesthetic results. With proper care, they have the potential to last a lifetime. You should stick to a thorough oral hygiene routine, use low-abrasion toothpaste, and avoid the use of mouthwashes that contain alcohol.
  • Teeth whitening. After your teeth are whitened, they can gradually incur new stains. To minimize new discoloration, you should limit your intake of highly pigmented foods and beverages. Thorough oral hygiene is also key. Occasional whitening touch-ups may be necessary to keep your smile looking its brightest.

In addition to the above tips, you should keep in mind the need to visit your dentist regularly. They can provide advice and services to help you enjoy a gorgeous smile that stands the test of time.

Are You Ready to Visit Your Cosmetic Dentist?

Here at Sunrise Dental Service in Bohemia, we are proud to offer a wide range of cosmetic and restorative services. Dr. Makadia has more than 30 years of experience in his field, and he is highly focused on providing personalized care that delivers outstanding results. Whether you are looking to correct minor aesthetic imperfections in your teeth, or you want to completely transform your smile, he and our team are ready to serve you. Contact us at 631-405-4390.