Keep Smiling! New Developments in Cosmetic Dentistry

May 29, 2012 - PRLog -- In the past, I've shared information about Clear Correct teeth straightening, a great alternative to conventional braces. I want to share some of the other revolutionary cosmetic dentistry techniques available that will have you flashing your smile in no time.

Cosmetic dentistry is more than just straightening teeth. It includes professional teeth whitening, veneers, bonding, and even the contouring and reshaping of your teeth. Everyone has a unique dental situation and my team and I are committed to offering you the best cosmetic dentistry options available for your personal situation.

Not everyone's teeth are the sparkly white that we see in toothpaste commercials, and that can breed a reluctance to show off a less-than-pristine smile. Teeth can become stained or discolored due to age and diet. You're probably aware that beverages like coffee and tea, colas, red wine, and certain juices can stain your teeth over time, as can the use of tobacco. But tooth discoloration can also be caused by the erosion of enamel caused by acids in other foods. Teeth whitening can improve the appearance of your teeth, revitalizing the smile you've been hiding. Under a dentist's supervision, the whitening process is easy, safe, and more effective than the products you see advertised on TV.

If your teeth are misshapen, a dentist can also create a more even smile using methods for tooth contouring and reshaping. Making minor alterations to the shape of a tooth or teeth can yield significant results in the uniformity of your smile. Working from x-rays and photographs, your dentist will use tools that polish and buff teeth to the desired shape, as well as working with a tooth-colored laminate to fill in chips and imperfections.

Porcelain veneers and dental bonding are two other options available to patients to both whiten and re-shape teeth. Veneers are a great long-term solution for discolored or misshapen teeth as well as for correcting misalignments without orthodontic intervention. Since veneers require only two appointments at my office, you'll see the results immediately. Dental bonding is also useful in correcting discoloration and repairing cracks and chips in teeth. Bonding uses a tooth-colored resin and high-intensity light to "bond" the material to the tooth, which is then polished and buffed the tooth to achieve the look you want.

Recent years and advances have provided dentists with many options for improving not only the health of your teeth, but also their appearance. Consult with your dentist to see what options might be right for you.

In the meantime, keep smiling!